
America’s Group has acquired AuctionVcommerce, an innovative technology platform that is setting new standards in the auto auction landscape.With this acquisition, America’s Auto Auction is set to integrate AVC’s platform to enhance operations and provide a streamlined auction experience for its dealer network. This integration will enable dealers to access a myriad of auction tools and services conveniently and efficiently.
AuctionVcommerce is an all-in-one platform created to transform how dealers interact with auctions. Designed as a centralized hub, it connects dealers to multiple auction platforms, offering a suite of features that simplify the checkout process, relaying payment options, tracking service status, and facilitating dealer requests for reports and gate passes. Beyond simplifying processes, AVC elevates the consignment experience, delivers seamless access to key industry resources and tools, and provides dealers the same exceptional service and support they would receive in person.
Kelly Bianchi, President of AuctionVcommerce, discussed the advantages of the acquisition, stating, “AuctionVcommerce was established to empower independent auctions to compete effectively in the digital space. This acquisition strengthens our foundation, enabling us to enhance current initiatives and broaden our vision. Ultimately, our aim is to provide dealers with a more seamless and efficient experience.”
Chuck Tapp, CEO of America’s Auto Auction, views this acquisition as a significant move towards enhancing their services to customers. He commented, “With AVC’s platform, we’re equipping our customers with the tools they need to operate more efficiently and effectively. It’s now easier for us to meet the customer’s needs in today’s fast-paced auction industry.”
NAAA is pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2025 World Automobile Auctioneers Championship at Manheim Phoenix, April 24-25, 2025. The WAAC is the premier competition in the auto auctioneer industry. Since 1989, top auctioneers and ringmen from around the world have competed in the event which celebrates the very best of auto auctioneering. For more information on this year’s event and to register, click https://naaa.eventsair.com/2025naaa-waac/registration.
Barrett-Jackson and General Motors have teamed up to sell the first retail production 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 VIN 001 during the Scottsdale Auction, January 18-26, 2025, at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Offering the most power ever from a factory Corvette, the 2025 ZR1 will be auctioned on Saturday, January 25, at approximately 5:30pm with 100 percent of the hammer price from the sale benefiting the American Red Cross in support of hurricane relief.
“General Motors is going full throttle with their new 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1,” said Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “With its awe-inspiring 1,064 horsepower pushing it to a top speed of 233 mph, it’s both the fastest factory production Corvette ever built and a symbol of GM’s incredible generosity. We had the honor of selling several first production Corvettes in the past, including the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 VIN 001 70th Anniversary Edition that sold for $3.7 million at the 2022 Scottsdale Auction for the charity Operation Homefront – the second-highest charity sale in our history. We’re grateful that GM entrusted us for what we expect to be another historic charity moment for Barrett-Jackson and GM this January.”
Powered by a twin-turbocharged DOHC flat-plane crank V8 engine dubbed the LT7, the 2025 Corvette ZR1 boasts the most power ever offered in a factory Corvette, and the most powerful V8 ever produced in America from an auto manufacturer. The ZR1’s LT7 engine starts with the same architecture as the Z06’s LT6, the most powerful naturally aspirated production V8 engine ever, and takes it to the next level with twin turbochargers - the first time ever for a factory Corvette. The result is 1,064 horsepower at 7,000 rpm, a top speed of 233 mph and a 0-60 mph in 2.3 seconds making it the fastest and quickest Corvette ever.
“Our team is incredibly proud to be making automotive performance history again with the introduction of the 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1,” said Amy Masica, Chevrolet marketing director. “The 2025 Corvette is the pinnacle of American engineering and design that’s heightened by its mind-bending performance straight from the factory. It’s only fitting the first retail production of the 2025 ZR1 will join other historic VIN 001 Corvettes sold at Barrett-Jackson to benefit charity.”
The winning bidder will receive the first retail production 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 VIN 001, configured to their factory spec preference. To date, Barrett-Jackson has helped raise more than $156 million for charities and non-profit organizations across the country.
Dealers Auto Auction Group announced the appointment of Josh Combs as vice president of national sales. With an extensive background in automotive sales, operations, and business development, Combs brings a wealth of expertise that will be instrumental in driving the company’s continued growth and success.
Combs has held several leadership roles throughout his career, including positions at PAR North America, ADESA, and High Tech Locksmiths.
Combs believes in the power of mentorship and giving back to others. He approaches his day with a “Pay It Forward” mentality to honor the support he’s received throughout his professional journey. His guiding philosophy, “Be for others what so many have been for me,” highlights his dedication to developing talent and his commitment to helping others succeed. By investing in those around him, Josh fosters a culture of growth, generosity, and mutual success.
David Diedrich, CCO of Dealers Auto Auction, commented “We couldn’t be more pleased to have Josh Comb’s join our organization, he is the best qualified candidate we could have possibly hired.”
Combs holds a B.S. in marketing and leadership studies from Ball State University and further refined his strategic capabilities through the Harvard Business School Online program.
David Andrews, CEO of Dealers Auto Auction Group, commented, “We are excited to welcome Josh Combs to our team. His leadership experience, strategic vision, and deep understanding of the automotive industry will be invaluable as we continue to expand our operations. We are confident that Josh will help us reach new levels of success and deliver even greater value to our customers.”