# Keynote Case Study: Canadian Automotive Dealers Summit 2026 — Auto Retail Was Entering the Age of Digital Mobility
By 

## Article Content
Jim explored how electric vehicles, connected cars, software-defined vehicles and digital-first buying behaviours were reshaping the dealership business. The Challenge: Dealerships needed to rethink the customer journey as vehicles and expectations changed. The Keynote: “The Future of Auto Retail, EVs and Mobility” The Message: The dealership was becoming a mobility, software and data business. Six Trends Shaping the Future of Auto Retail EV Transition — Electrification is changing products, service and sales conversations. Connected Vehicles — Vehicles are becoming data-rich platforms that extend the customer relationship. Software-Defined Cars — Continuous updates are changing what a vehicle can become after the sale. AI in Retail — AI is improving marketing, service, operations and customer insight. Digital Customer Journey — Consumers expect a seamless online-first path to research, buy and service. Mobility Models — New ownership and access models are expanding the meaning of auto retail. The future of auto retail is electric, connected and digital.

---
Source: https://jimcarroll.com/2026/01/keynote-case-study-canadian-automotive-dealers-summit-2026-auto-retail-was-entering-the-age-of-digital-mobility/