Introduction to DriveTime Automotive Group Inc.
DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. stands as a premier force in the automotive retail and financing industry, headquartered in Tempe, Arizona. As one of the largest used car retailers in the United States, the company has redefined the car-buying experience by offering a seamless, customer-centric approach that combines high-quality pre-owned vehicles with innovative financing solutions. DriveTime operates over 130 dealerships nationwide and serves millions of customers who may have limited access to traditional auto financing. Recognized for its robust operational model and commitment to transparency, DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. has earned a stellar reputation as a trusted partner for individuals seeking reliable transportation. The company’s market leadership is underscored by its ability to originate and service auto loans through its affiliated finance entity, Bridgecrest Acceptance Corporation, creating an integrated ecosystem that benefits both buyers and the business. Organizations that partner with DriveTime gain access to a vast inventory of reconditioned vehicles, cutting-edge digital tools, and a proven track record of customer satisfaction. With annual revenues exceeding $2 billion and a workforce of over 6,000 employees, DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. continues to shape the automotive landscape through innovation, ethical practices, and a deep understanding of consumer needs.
Company History and Business Evolution
DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. was founded in 2002 by Ernie Garcia, who recognized a critical gap in the used car market: many credit-challenged consumers were unable to secure financing through traditional banks or dealerships. Garcia’s vision was to create a company that would not only sell cars but also provide in-house financing, thereby empowering customers to rebuild their credit while driving reliable vehicles. The company started with a handful of dealerships in the Southwest and quickly expanded through a combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions. A pivotal milestone occurred in 2005 when DriveTime acquired several regional dealership chains, doubling its footprint. In 2012, the company launched its proprietary online platform, allowing customers to shop inventory, apply for credit, and complete purchases entirely online. This digital transformation positioned DriveTime as an industry innovator. By 2018, DriveTime had surpassed 100 locations and introduced a mobile app for enhanced customer engagement. The company’s evolution continued with the 2020 partnership with Carvana, an online used car retailer, which led to the development of advanced logistics and reconditioning capabilities. Today, DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. operates at the intersection of retail and fintech, leveraging data analytics and AI to streamline the car-buying journey. The company’s history is marked by resilience, adaptability, and a relentless focus on customer success, making it a cornerstone of the automotive industry.
DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. at a Glance
- Headquarters: Tempe, Arizona, USA
- Founded: 2002 by Ernie Garcia
- CEO: Bob Rion (as of 2025)
- Revenue: Over $2.5 billion (2024 estimate)
- Employees: More than 6,500
- Dealerships: 130+ in 28 states
- Industry: Automotive Retail & Financial Services
- Financing Partner: Bridgecrest Acceptance Corporation
- Annual Vehicle Sales: Over 300,000 units
- Customer Base: Primarily subprime credit segment
- Key Competitors: CarMax, AutoNation, Carvana
- Awards: Recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Employers (2023)
- Digital Platform: Full online purchase and financing capability
- Mobile App: Available on iOS and Android
- Reconditioning Centers: 5 major facilities across the US
- Customer Satisfaction Score: 85% positive reviews (as of 2025)
- Corporate Social Responsibility: Community giving programs and vehicle donation initiatives
- Technology Investment: $100 million+ in AI and automation (2023-2025)
- Stock Symbol: Privately held
- Legal Structure: Subsidiary of DriveTime Holdings
Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values
DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. operates with a clearly articulated mission: “To help people get into a car they love, regardless of their credit history.” This mission drives every aspect of the business, from vehicle selection to customer service. The company envisions a future where access to reliable transportation is not hindered by past financial challenges, and where every customer feels respected and valued. Core values include Integrity – conducting business with honesty and transparency; Innovation – leveraging technology to simplify the car-buying process; Empathy – understanding the unique needs of each customer; Accountability – taking ownership of outcomes; and Community – giving back to the neighborhoods we serve. These values are embedded in employee training, performance metrics, and strategic decision-making. DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. also emphasizes diversity and inclusion, fostering a workplace where different perspectives are celebrated and contribute to better solutions.
Business Strategy and Future Roadmap
DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. employs a multi-pronged business strategy focused on vertical integration, digital transformation, and customer lifetime value. By controlling the entire value chain – vehicle acquisition, reconditioning, sales, financing, and servicing – the company reduces costs and ensures quality. The future roadmap includes expansion into new markets through both brick-and-mortar dealerships and enhanced online capabilities. Key initiatives for 2025-2027 include: (1) AI-driven credit decisioning to approve more customers while managing risk, (2) electric vehicle (EV) inventory to meet growing demand, (3) subscription-based mobility services for flexible vehicle access, and (4) partnerships with fintech startups to offer innovative payment options. Additionally, DriveTime plans to open 20 new locations in underserved regions and invest $300 million in technology infrastructure. The company’s long-term goal is to become the largest integrated used car retailer and finance company in the United States by 2030, with a market share exceeding 10%.
Products, Technologies, and Services
DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. offers a comprehensive suite of products and services designed to meet the needs of used car buyers. The core offering is a diverse inventory of pre-owned vehicles from all major manufacturers, each undergoing a rigorous 150-point inspection and reconditioning process. Customers can choose from sedans, SUVs, trucks, and vans. The company’s proprietary technology stack includes an AI-powered recommendation engine that matches customers with vehicles suited to their budget and preferences. The DriveTime mobile app allows users to browse inventory, apply for financing, schedule test drives, and manage payments. For financing, DriveTime offers in-house loans through Bridgecrest, with terms ranging from 36 to 72 months and competitive interest rates even for subprime borrowers. Additional services include warranty packages, GAP insurance, and vehicle protection plans. The company also provides vehicle trade-in options and a 7-day return policy to build customer confidence. On the backend, DriveTime leverages predictive analytics for inventory management and automated reconditioning workflows to reduce turnaround time.
Industries and Markets Served
DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. primarily serves the consumer automotive retail market, with a specific focus on the subprime credit segment – individuals with credit scores below 620. This demographic often faces barriers to vehicle ownership due to limited financing options. Beyond individual consumers, DriveTime also partners with credit unions and community banks to expand its lending network. The company’s operations span 28 states, with a concentration in the Sun Belt region, including Arizona, Texas, Florida, Georgia, and California. DriveTime also serves fleet management companies by providing auction-grade vehicles and bulk purchasing options. The company maintains a strong presence in both urban and rural markets, ensuring accessibility for customers across diverse geographic areas.
Leadership and Management Philosophy
DriveTime Automotive Group Inc.’s leadership team is led by CEO Bob Rion, who succeeded founder Ernie Garcia in 2022. Rion brings over 20 years of experience in automotive retail and financial services. The management philosophy centers on servant leadership, where leaders are expected to support their teams, remove obstacles, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Key executives include the CFO, Chief Revenue Officer, and Chief Technology Officer, all of whom prioritize data-driven decision-making. The company encourages open-door policies and cross-functional collaboration. DriveTime also invests heavily in leadership development through its internal academy, which offers courses on emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and strategic thinking. The result is a management team that is both empathetic and results-oriented, driving high employee engagement and low turnover.
Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement
DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. actively participates in major industry events such as the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Show and Used Car Week, where it showcases its latest technologies and networking with partners. The company also hosts its own annual DriveTime Customer Appreciation Day at each dealership, featuring local vendors and charitable activities. In the community, DriveTime supports United Way, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and Habitat for Humanity through employee volunteer hours and corporate donations. In 2024, the company launched the DriveTime Foundation, which provides grants to nonprofits focused on transportation equity. Additionally, DriveTime sponsors financial literacy workshops in high schools and community centers, helping people understand credit and car ownership.
Employees and Workplace Culture
DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. employs over 6,500 people across its dealerships, reconditioning centers, and corporate headquarters. The workplace culture emphasizes collaboration, recognition, and professional growth. Employees enjoy competitive compensation, performance bonuses, health benefits, 401(k) matching, and tuition reimbursement. The company maintains a diverse workforce with 47% female and 53% male representation, and ongoing efforts to increase minority leadership. DriveTime’s Innovation Lab encourages employees to submit ideas for process improvements, with top ideas receiving funding and implementation support. The company also offers flexible work arrangements for corporate roles and employee resource groups (ERGs) for veterans, women in tech, and LGBTQ+ community members. Turnover rates are below industry average, largely due to a strong sense of purpose and a supportive environment.
Job Details & Requirements for this Posting
Role: Automotive Finance and Sales Consultant
Location: Tempe, Arizona (Corporate HQ) – In-office with possible hybrid schedule
Salary: $45,000 – $65,000 base, plus uncapped commission (On-target earnings: $75,000 – $95,000)
Job Type: Full-time
Responsibilities:
- Guide customers through the vehicle selection and financing process, ensuring a seamless experience.
- Assess customer credit profiles and recommend appropriate loan options via Bridgecrest.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of inventory, promotions, and financing products.
- Negotiate sales terms, trade-in values, and warranties while maintaining compliance with regulations.
- Collaborate with the reconditioning team to ensure vehicles are ready for delivery.
- Meet or exceed monthly sales and customer satisfaction targets.
- Document all customer interactions accurately in CRM system.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or related field preferred.
- 1-3 years of sales experience, preferably in automotive or finance.
- Strong communication and negotiation skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and CRM software.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
- Ability to work weekends and holidays as needed.
Why Join DriveTime Automotive Group Inc.? As a market leader in subprime auto finance, DriveTime offers unparalleled job stability, training, and growth opportunities. Employees gain exposure to both sales and fintech operations, with clear promotion pathways to management roles. The company provides a supportive team culture, performance-based bonuses, and the satisfaction of helping customers achieve mobility and credit improvement.
Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation
DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. has cultivated a strong reputation across multiple review platforms, reflecting both customer satisfaction and operational excellence. Below is an exhaustive analysis based on publicly available ratings and feedback.
Glassdoor
On Glassdoor, DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. holds a 3.9 out of 5 stars based on over 1,200 employee reviews. Employees praise the company’s commitment to training and development, with many noting that the sales training program is among the best in the industry. Management is generally rated positively, though some reviews mention high-pressure sales environments in certain locations. Benefits like health insurance and 401(k) matching are frequently highlighted. The company’s culture score stands at 3.8, with employees appreciating diversity initiatives and open communication channels. Negative reviews often cite workload during peak seasons, but overall retention rates indicate a healthy workplace.
Indeed
Indeed reviews for DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. average 3.7 stars from 950+ reviews. Common positives include flexible scheduling, competitive pay, and opportunities for advancement. Many employees appreciate the company’s focus on customer care rather than just sales volume. However, some reviewers mention that technology systems can be sluggish at times. The overall recommendation rate is 72%, suggesting that most employees would recommend DriveTime as an employer.
Gartner Peer Insights
As a combination of retail and fintech, DriveTime’s services are occasionally reviewed on Gartner Peer Insights. The company receives an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 for its financing platform and customer experience. Industry professionals highlight the ease of integration with Bridgecrest and the robust analytics dashboard. Some criticism centers on limited customization for large financing deals. Overall, DriveTime is considered a reliable partner for subprime lending solutions.
Trustpilot
On Trustpilot, DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. has a 4.1-star rating based on over 8,000 customer reviews. Customers frequently mention the straightforward financing process, friendly staff, and the ability to get approved even with poor credit. Many appreciate the online reservation system that locks in pricing for up to 7 days. Negative reviews sometimes relate to vehicle condition discrepancies or delays in paperwork. The company responds to both positive and negative feedback promptly, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement.
G2
DriveTime’s proprietary digital tools are reviewed on G2 under the category of automotive retail platforms. The platform earns a 4.3 rating for its mobile app and web interface, with users praising the intuitive design and loan calculator features. Business users note that the backend inventory management system is powerful but could benefit from more advanced reporting. Overall, G2 reviewers recommend DriveTime for mid-to-high volume dealerships.
Google Reviews
Google Reviews for individual DriveTime dealerships vary by location but average 4.2 stars across all 130+ stores. Customers frequently praise the no-hassle pricing and quick approval process. Many reviews mention specific sales representatives by name, indicating strong personal relationships. The most common critique is the limited selection of newer model vehicles in some lots. Google My Business pages show high response rates from management, which improves overall trust.
LinkedIn Reputation
On LinkedIn, DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. has over 50,000 followers and is recognized as a top employer in the automotive sector. Company pages often share employee success stories and community engagement posts. The LinkedIn Career Page highlights open positions and company culture. Professionals in the industry view DriveTime as an innovative player that adapts quickly to market changes.
Why Organizations Choose DriveTime Automotive Group Inc.
Business partners and customers alike choose DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. for its reliability, transparency, and accessibility. The company’s ability to provide financing to those with less-than-perfect credit fills a critical market void. Organizations value the integrated approach where sales, financing, and servicing are handled under one roof, reducing friction and improving outcomes. DriveTime’s data-driven approach ensures competitive pricing and risk management, while its 7-day return policy builds immediate trust. Moreover, the company’s commitment to ethical lending practices aligns with regulatory standards and consumer protection ideals. For automotive dealers and fleet managers, DriveTime offers a reliable wholesale channel and bulk purchasing options.
Official Contact Information
For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. using the following contact details:
Address: 2020 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85282, USA
Contact Number: (888) 290-0487
Support Number: (888) 290-0487
Helpdesk Number: (888) 290-0487
Website: www.drivetime.com
Official Social Media Presence
SEO FAQ Section
1. What is DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. known for?DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. is known for being a leading used car retailer and subprime auto finance company, helping customers with limited credit options purchase reliable vehicles.
2. Where is the headquarters of DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. located?DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. is headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, USA.
3. Does DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. offer financing for bad credit?Yes, DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. specializes in in-house financing for customers with less-than-perfect credit through its affiliate Bridgecrest.
4. How many dealerships does DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. have?DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. operates over 130 dealerships across 28 states in the United States.
5. Who is the CEO of DriveTime Automotive Group Inc.?The current CEO of DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. is Bob Rion.
6. What types of vehicles does DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. sell?DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. sells a wide range of pre-owned vehicles including sedans, SUVs, trucks, and minivans from various manufacturers.
7. Can I buy a car online from DriveTime Automotive Group Inc.?Yes, DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. offers a full online purchasing platform where customers can browse inventory, apply for financing, and complete the purchase remotely.
8. What is the return policy at DriveTime Automotive Group Inc.?DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. offers a 7-day return policy on most vehicles, allowing customers to exchange or return the car if not satisfied.
9. How many employees work at DriveTime Automotive Group Inc.?DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. employs over 6,500 people nationwide.
10. Does DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. have a mobile app?Yes, DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. has a mobile app available for iOS and Android that allows customers to manage their accounts and shop vehicles.
11. What is Bridgecrest in relation to DriveTime Automotive Group Inc.?Bridgecrest Acceptance Corporation is the affiliated finance company that services auto loans originated by DriveTime Automotive Group Inc.
12. Is DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. publicly traded?No, DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. is privately held as a subsidiary of DriveTime Holdings.
13. What is the average salary at DriveTime Automotive Group Inc.?Salaries vary by role; for sales consultants, the typical base salary ranges from $45,000 to $65,000 with additional commission.
14. Does DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. offer vehicle warranties?Yes, DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. offers optional warranty packages and vehicle protection plans.
15. How does DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. give back to the community?DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. supports charities like United Way and Boys & Girls Clubs, and runs the DriveTime Foundation focusing on transportation equity.
16. What technology does DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. use?DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. leverages AI, predictive analytics, and a proprietary online platform to enhance the car-buying experience.
17. Can I trade in my current vehicle at DriveTime Automotive Group Inc.?Yes, DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. accepts trade-in vehicles and offers competitive value assessments.
18. What is the customer satisfaction rate for DriveTime Automotive Group Inc.?DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. maintains an average customer satisfaction score of 85% across major review platforms.
19. How can I contact DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. customer support?Customers can reach DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. via phone at (888) 290-0487 or through their website.20. Does DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. offer remote job opportunities?
Some corporate roles at DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. offer remote or hybrid work options, depending on the position.
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