Must-Know Digital Shifts Dealers Can’t Ignore

Things are moving fast in digital marketing, and your dealership needs to stay ahead. From shifting search behavior to new ad tools and the return of tariff-fueled buying urgency, here’s what’s happening now (and how Strong Automotive can help you crush it).

ChatGPT Isn’t Beating Google – Yet

Despite the hype, Google still rules the search world with 13.7 billion daily searches. But ChatGPT is becoming a go-to search tool, especially for quick answers. That means your strategy can’t be one-size-fits-all. Strong Automotive knows how to align your content with both traditional and emerging search behaviors, so your inventory and offers stay visible everywhere buyers look.

TikTok’s New Ad Tools Are All About ROI

TikTok just dropped major updates at its 2025 TikTok World summit – including new AI-powered tools and a smarter Search Center to help advertisers target and convert with precision. Their new “Market Scope” analytics platform gives brands a full-funnel view of what makes buyers tick, while Brand Consideration Ads let you nudge shoppers from “maybe” to “let’s go.”

With search use up 40 percent on TikTok and one in four users searching within 30 seconds of opening the app, this isn’t just a Gen Z playground – it’s a conversion machine. Strong Automotive is ready to plug you into TikTok’s smartest tools and build campaigns that get your dealership noticed.

Tariff Talk = More Motivated Buyers

Tariffs are making headlines, but that’s not a problem for dealers. It’s a powerful opportunity.

A recent survey from Jerry shows that the buzz around potential tariff-related price increases is prompting serious buying behavior. Shoppers – especially Gen Z and high-income earners – aren’t waiting around. In fact, over half of them plan to buy sooner to stay ahead of potential increases.

That means the window is wide open to connect with motivated buyers. When the news cycle drives urgency, your dealership can step in with bold messaging, smart pricing, and affordability options that give customers the confidence they need.

Let’s Build Your Next Digital Win

From crafting search-friendly content that ranks on Google and ChatGPT to launching high-performance TikTok campaigns to striking while the iron’s hot on tariff-driven demand, Strong Automotive is your partner in the fast lane. We handle everything above and more, so you can focus on selling.