Dealers will get a first-hand look at how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming day-to-day retail operations at this year’s Automotive Management Live, with a session led by Novaco AI founder and chief executive Maarten Bekkers.

Bekkers will present “The virtual workforce that works for your dealership” on November 12 at the NEC, showing how UK retailers are already deploying AI assistants to manage workshop bookings, customer messaging and lead follow-up – fully integrated with dealer management systems (DMS).

Speaking ahead of the event, Bekkers told AM that AI-powered virtual workforces are not about replacing staff but freeing them from routine admin tasks.

“These assistants can answer enquiries, book appointments, update customers on vehicle progress and even carry out post-sale follow up,” he said.

“Customers no longer need to call a dealership to ask if a car is ready for collection, as the AI proactively provides updates.”

One Mercedes-Benz group was able to go live with this AI technology within three weeks, while another dealer group reported £1.5 million in savings during the first year and a lift in online lead conversion rates from 15% to 25%.

“The conversation sells the appointment, and the appointment sells the car,” Bekkers added.

“Virtual workforces are enabling retailers to scale sales and service without increasing headcount, while also delivering faster responses and better customer experiences.”

Novaco AI was also a sponsor of Automotive Management’s recent Dealer AI Week – a programme of video interviews, features and expert guidance on the impact of new technologies in motor retail. During his recent interview with contributing editor Tom Seymour, Bekkers set out a vision of conversational websites, WhatsApp-based bookings that cut phone traffic, and AI-driven voice systems extending dealer accessibility around the clock.

Delegates at Automotive Management Live will hear how this future is already taking shape – and how deploying AI in the right way can deliver measurable efficiency gains and stronger customer relationships without the burden of complex IT projects.

Car dealers can register here to attend Automotive Management Live free of charge on November 12 at Birmingham NEC.

Reasons to attend Automotive Management Live 2025:

• Understand which car brands are likely to thrive or merely survive in the UK's new car market in the long term
• Hear how they can better protect their business from the threat of cyber criminals
• Identify their next steps to manage the impact of a motor finance commissions redress scheme on their administration teams
• Spot the opportunities that artificial intelligence and technology can provide for their operations without adding more complexity to their tech stack
• Plan their strategies for new and used car sales growth, service retention and workshop efficiency