mobile.de builds AI agent to assist car buyers

mobile.de is developing an AI agent named Mobi to assist users during the orientation phase of car buying. The tool helps users compare vehicles, understand price differences, and contact dealers directly. The company argues that classifieds platforms remain essential for high-emotion, high-risk purchase decisions, such as cars and real estate, where users desire control over the final transaction. Gebhardt suggests that AI agents will increase traffic to such platforms by consolidating offers and directing users to specific listings, potentially benefiting the business model despite reduced ad visibility. He notes that the platform's competitive advantage lies in market transparency, with 1.5 million vehicles listed, regulatory barriers such as licensing for finance, and deep integration into industry processes. The company views AI not as a threat to the classifieds model but as a tool to enhance user experience and consolidate market data. Gebhardt emphasized that the focus is on relevant life decisions involving significant capital, rather than trivial transactions.