Automotive
DRIVING THE SHIFT: How Keyloop is Reshaping the Future of Automotive Retail
Exclusive Interview with Tom Kilroy, Chief Executive Officer at Keyloop
How is Keyloop’s unified Fusion platform approach fundamentally changing automotive retail?
Fusion is an end-to-end Automotive Retail Platform (ARP) that will help motor retailers across the Middle East manage and optimise the full vehicle sales and aftersales process – from initial enquiry through to ownership and retention.
Fusion is different to anything automotive retailers have seen before, incorporating four distinct ‘domains’: Demand, Supply, Ownership, and Operate – and covering all key functions within a dealership’s business. Our Drive Dealer Management System (DMS) is a critical element in the Operate domain.
Each of Fusion’s domains draws upon information held in the platform’s Active Data Core, which provides users in all departments with a single comprehensive record of customer interactions and transactions. This is in line with our commitment to provide a way of working that prioritises outcomes, making efficiency, automation, and an AI-driven future a core part of Keyloop’s strategy.
What leadership principle has proven universal in your transition from finance to enterprise tech, to automotive retail?
The guiding principle for me in all these areas is the importance of convenience, for customers and for users. I have found it important to keep that concept right at the centre of what we do and to put it first as we consider “how can things be improved?”. It requires bringing the right information to the right place at the right time, making the experience far more convenient for the customer. We saw this in finance with the move to online banking, being accessible 24 hours of the day. And the same applies in automotive retail.
So, whether it’s paying a bill through your phone, booking your car in for a service with your trusted dealer, or browsing for a new car, the ultimate goal is convenience. At Keyloop we call this “Experience-First” which we use to guide our direction.
How is Fusion helping bridge gaps between vehicle supply, retail demand, and financing processes?
Fusion tools and functionality can be deployed rapidly and securely for organisations of all sizes, even major dealer groups operating in multiple countries and with distribution networks of sites representing a diverse portfolio of vehicle brands. Fusion puts the customer at the heart of all activity, helping retailers deliver positive customer outcomes and amplify revenues through the full purchase and ownership cycle. It also streamlines and automates key processes to reduce operational costs, making businesses more agile.
What advantages does the Fusion platform offer fleet suppliers in managing large-scale vehicle operations?
Keyloop pulls from more than 9,000 OEM integrations to help facilitate a connected user and customer journey. Fleet suppliers can either select the elements of the Fusion ARP that best meet their requirements or introduce the full platform across the entire business.
Our intelligent inventory and asset risk management tools provide a single source of truth, enabling more proactive and strategic decision-making when it comes to vehicle supply, pricing and advertising. Whether you’re managing new, used, pipeline or fleet vehicles, our technology gives you the insights and tools to keep stock moving, profitably. The outcomes? Maximised vehicle visibility, faster stock turn, greater profit per day and reduced advertising spend.
Reducing days in stock starts with having complete visibility of every vehicle in your ecosystem. Keyloop’s Vehicle Hub allows fleet providers to centrally manage all stock, providing a consistent, up-to-date view of vehicles and more importantly vehicle status across all sales channels and teams. Regardless of the sales models they follow, this data clarity helps them act quickly and with confidence. What’s more, tools like Keyloop’s Fleetbase streamlines complex order processes that can be often fragmented, bringing everything into one simplified flow. It’s a unified approach that saves time and helps turn stock faster.
How is Keyloop adapting its platform to support the unique sales cycles of EVs and hybrids?
Fusion accommodates all vehicles but recognises the lesser impact of EVs on the aftersales journey. The platform creates efficiencies elsewhere to help make up the shortfall and to focus on adding other valuable services. We also offer the ability to search for charging points via our front-end ecommerce websites, working with integration partners to offer greater awareness of EVs and the different makes, models and battery types available to consumers.
How are regulatory changes around data privacy impacting automotive retail platforms?
As guidelines evolve, the automotive industry is facing heightened responsibility when it comes to data handling and consumer transparency. Regulatory changes concerning data privacy are inevitably shaping new motor retail technologies.
At Keyloop, we prioritise robust data protection methods and seamless integration of our solutions. This ensures regulatory compliance is always met, enabling dealerships to navigate the evolving complexities of the regulatory landscape, while continuing to deliver exceptional customer service.
How do you see the role of physical dealerships evolving over the next decade?
For many, a car is one of the biggest purchases they’ll ever make, so offering an exemplary experience is crucial and a core Fusion value. Retailers know that the conventional dealership showroom model needs to evolve, and they are gradually shifting towards experience centres, with less stock on site and more immersive technology available for visitors. The industry is already offering customers in-store visualisation and car-building technology, so augmented reality isn’t far off.
Rather than managing four walls and focusing on closing sales, retailers are beginning to manage an ecosystem and build strong, retainable customer relationships online and offline – all made possible thanks to the cohesive management of data and the integration of customer-first technology such as Fusion.
Automotive
GWM Marks Ramadan in the Middle East with a Brand Film Celebrating Togetherness and the Joy of Coming Together

This Ramadan, GWM Middle East unveils a new brand-led campaign that celebrates one of the most meaningful moments of the Holy Month: coming together for iftar. Anchored by a regional social film, the campaign reflects the shared values of family, connection and presence, while subtly showcasing GWM’s growing vehicle range, including the newly launched TANK 700 and HAVAL V7.
The film follows different members of the same family as they make their way through the city toward a shared destination, a restaurant where they will break their fast together. Each journey unfolds independently, yet with a shared sense of purpose, capturing the anticipation, comedy, warmth and quiet reflection that define the moments leading up to iftar.
Many Journeys. One Table.
Set against familiar Middle Eastern urban backdrops, the film portrays everyday Ramadan realities, last-minute arrivals, and the unspoken understanding of being exactly where you need to be. Each family member arrives in a different GWM vehicle, collectively representing the brand’s diverse portfolio and how it fits seamlessly into different lifestyles.
The TANK 700 appears as a confident, commanding presence, reflecting strength and assurance on the road, while the HAVAL V7 is positioned as a refined and versatile companion for daily city driving. Meanwhile, the HAVAL H9 is born for families, delivering space, comfort, and reliability for every journey together.
Together with other models from the GWM range, the vehicles act not as the focus, but as enablers, quietly supporting moments that truly matter.
Rooted in Regional Values
Rather than focusing on performance alone, the Ramadan film emphasizes GWM’s belief that mobility plays a role in human connection. The story mirrors the rhythm of Ramadan in the Middle East, where schedules slow, priorities shift, and togetherness takes center stage.
Through natural, relatable storytelling, the campaign reinforces GWM’s commitment to the region, offering vehicles designed for comfort, safety and reliability, built to support everyday life during the most meaningful times of the year.
A Message of Togetherness
Speaking of the campaign, Sunny Bhat, Sales & Marketing Director, GWM Middle East said, “Ramadan is a reminder that no matter how different our journeys may be, what matters most is where we end up, together. This film reflects our belief that vehicles are not just about getting from one place to another, but about enabling moments of connection. We are proud to see our growing range, including the TANK 700 and HAVAL V7, be part of these everyday Ramadan stories.”
Automotive
Arabian Automobiles Introduces Choice-Led Nissan Ramadan Offers Reflecting the Spirit of the Holy Month
Arabian Automobiles Company (AAC), the flagship automotive company of AW Rostamani Group and the exclusive dealer for Nissan in Dubai, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates, has launched its Nissan Ramadan offers across selected models. Aligned with the spirit of generosity associated with the Holy Month, the campaign is structured around flexibility and choice.
Customers can select one of three ownership options based on their priorities, whether that is added reassurance through complimentary insurance and service, greater ease in monthly planning with 0% interest rate over three to five years, or a savings option across selected models. Businesses, fleet owners and logistics operators can also benefit from these Ramadan offers, with value-led advantages such as 5-year warranty, 5-year service, and 5-year roadside assistance extending the same spirit of flexibility to commercial needs.

This approach reflects AAC’s considered interpretation of value, recognising that customer needs and circumstances differ, and that choice plays a central role in how value is defined during Ramadan.
The offers span a broad lineup, including Altima, Kicks, Magnite, Pathfinder, Patrol, X-TERRA, and X-TRAIL, with savings ranging from AED 6,000 up to AED 25,000. For those seeking a more performance-led experience, the Nissan Z is also included, also with savings of up to AED 50,000.

That same spirit of care continues beyond the showroom, with seasonal after-sales advantages. Customers coming in for an interval service or a free inspection will be eligible for a one-year, 24/7 roadside assistance membership covering Dubai, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates.
Keeping convenience in mind, Arabian Automobiles is offering a buy-four-get-one promotion on maintenance contracts to make long-term upkeep more manageable, alongside up to 65% off parts for additional repairs. Flexible payment options are available through Tabby and selected credit card plans, and a gift is included with any Nissan accessory purchase. Customers are invited to explore the Ramadan campaign at their nearest Nissan of Arabian Automobiles showroom.
Automotive
UDRIVE PARTNERS WITH AGMC TO INTRODUCE MINI VEHICLES TO ITS CAR-SHARING FLEET IN THE UAE
Udrive, the UAE’s leading car-sharing platform, has signed a strategic partnership with AGMC, the official importer of MINI in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, to introduce MINI vehicles to Udrive’s shared mobility fleet in the UAE. The collaboration was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Udrive and AGMC and brings the MINI brand — the iconic British-heritage premium automotive brand within the BMW Group, renowned for its distinctive design and engaging driving experience — into the car-sharing space, supporting a shared ambition to expand access to premium urban mobility solutions across the country.
The partnership will see a total of 100 MINI vehicles progressively introduced to the Udrive platform, with an initial fleet already available to customers across the UAE. The lineup will include MINI Convertibles, bringing the experience of open-top driving into the car-sharing space, alongside other MINI models well-suited to urban mobility and everyday city use. Through the Udrive platform, customers benefit from an all-inclusive car-sharing experience, with fuel and parking covered as part of the service.
By expanding flexible access to premium mobility, the partnership supports the UAE’s broader ambitions for smarter, more connected cities, in line with the vision outlined in the Dubai Master Urban Plan 2040. The collaboration reflects a growing shift toward agile, shared and experience-led mobility solutions, complementing evolving urban lifestyles and mobility needs.

Hasib Khan, Founder and CEO of Udrive, said: “At Udrive, innovation is about giving customers real choice and flexibility. Our platform is designed to adapt to how people live, whether that means enjoying a convertible over the weekend or choosing a practical vehicle during the week. Partnering with AGMC MINI allows us to bring distinctive premium vehicles to more customers and support the UAE’s vision for flexible and efficient urban mobility.”
Ziad Boghdady, Head of AGMC MINI, said: “Our collaboration with Udrive introduces a new way for customers to experience the MINI brand. Integrating MINI models into a car-sharing platform reflects changing preferences in the UAE, where access and flexibility are increasingly valued alongside design and performance, complementing MINI’s distinctive design and engaging driving experience. The partnership demonstrates AGMC MINI’s commitment to supporting modern mobility solutions that fit the needs of today’s urban lifestyles.”
Through the MoU, users will gain access to a range of MINI models via the Udrive platform, including Cooper S and John Cooper Works variants, as well as MINI Convertibles. Introducing convertibles into the car-sharing space expands the scope of shared mobility experiences, offering customers the opportunity to enjoy open-top driving on a flexible, on-demand basis.
Udrive enables customers to locate, book, and unlock vehicles through its mobile app, with flexible by-the-minute or by-the-day rentals. The service includes free fuel, free parking, and no deposit, removing common barriers associated with traditional car rentals. Udrive now operates a fleet of 2,000+ cars and has completed over three million rentals to date. In 2025 alone, the platform recorded over 554,000 trips and more than 45 million kilometres driven, reflecting growing demand for flexible mobility across the UAE.
Udrive continues to differentiate itself through exclusive partnerships, first-to-market initiatives, and value-led offerings that expand customer choice. Promoting car sharing as an alternative to private car ownership helps optimise vehicle usage, reduce congestion, and lower the overall environmental footprint by encouraging shared access over individual ownership.
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