AutoTrader Integrates ChatGPT for Canadian Car Shopping

Key Points

• AutoTrader launches ChatGPT integration, becoming the first Canadian automotive marketplace available directly on the AI platform
• Users can search hundreds of thousands of vehicle listings using natural language in both English and French
• The integration provides dealers with additional exposure to engaged shoppers through conversational AI search
• Over 26 million monthly visitors and 7 million app users can now access AutoTrader through ChatGPT’s Apps section
• Partnership with OpenAI represents AutoTrader’s continued AI-first strategy for modern car shopping

Background

AutoTrader has been Canada’s leading automotive marketplace for years, connecting millions of car shoppers with dealers across the country. The platform hosts hundreds of thousands of new and used vehicle listings and receives over 26 million monthly visits (ℹ️ AutoTrader).

The company has consistently invested in artificial intelligence to improve search functionality and vehicle discovery, making it easier for Canadians to find cars that match their needs. This latest move extends that commitment into conversational AI.

What Happened

On January 28, 2026, AutoTrader officially launched its ChatGPT integration, making it the first and only Canadian automotive marketplace directly accessible through the AI platform. The integration was built in close partnership with OpenAI following the company’s ChatGPT App Store announcement.

“We’ve seen tremendous change in how Canadians shop for cars, and our focus on innovation continues to shape how we respond to these shifts in the car shopping journey,” says Justin Re, Chief Product Officer at AutoTrader (ℹ️ CNW).

The integration supports both English and French, reflecting Canada’s bilingual marketplace. Users can now ask ChatGPT questions in natural language—whether they’re looking for a spacious SUV, a specific brand, an electric vehicle, or availability in their region.

Why It Matters

This integration changes how Canadians can search for vehicles. Instead of using traditional filters and checkboxes, shoppers can simply describe what they’re looking for in everyday language. ChatGPT then displays relevant listings from AutoTrader’s marketplace directly in the chat.

For the thousands of automotive dealers across Canada who use AutoTrader to showcase their inventory, the change means additional visibility. Vehicle listings automatically become discoverable in conversational search contexts, connecting more engaged shoppers to their inventory.

The timing aligns with broader shifts in consumer behavior. As conversational AI becomes more common in daily life, car shoppers increasingly expect intuitive, chat-based experiences. AutoTrader’s quick response to ChatGPT’s App Store launch demonstrates the company’s commitment to meeting customers where they already are.

What’s Next

Getting started is straightforward. Users can connect the AutoTrader app once through ChatGPT’s “Apps” section, then begin searching for vehicles directly through AI chat. With one click, they’re taken to detailed listing pages on AutoTrader.ca, where they can view more information and contact sellers.

AutoTrader continues to position itself as the central hub for vehicle information, comparisons, and dealer connections—now accessible through emerging AI platforms as well as traditional web and mobile interfaces.

Source: AutoTrader via CNW — Published on January 28, 2026, 12:43 ET
Original article: https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/autotrader-launches-chatgpt-integration-a-first-for-canadian-automotive-marketplaces-869415191.html