Chrome Unveils New Automotive Web Service

Portland-based Chrome Systems Corporation, provider of automotive data, configuration and comparison technology and commerce solutions, announced a new Web service that enables application developers to retrieve used vehicle values based on an automated cross referencing of Chrome’s vehicle description to official N.A.D.A. valuations.

The result of this cross referencing is a summary of a vehicle’s worth, adjusted for mileage, installed options and region of the country, that can be incorporated into a web-based software application.

Chrome’s N.A.D.A. Valuation Service is an extension of the Chrome Knowledge Platform, a Chrome-hosted Web service platform that grants and enables access to its rich vehicle database and associated software tools. Through this service, developers query hosted information on a per transaction basis. Application developers reportedly benefit because they can utilize standard Web services technology to access the Chrome service inside of their own applications. Customers benefit because they can retrieve valuations as needed, by simply entering a VIN or a manufacturer’s model code.

“Our vision of developing leading-edge, market-reflective new and used automotive data integration tools and solutions continues with this latest announcement from our partner Chrome Systems,” said Scott Lilja, chief executive officer of the N.A.D.A. Official Used Car Guide Company. “This is another example of the outstanding strategic relationship between Chrome and N.A.D.A. We believe that this new offering will bring enhanced efficiencies, lower systems maintenance costs, and best in class automotive data solutions to our current and prospective clients.”

By using standard Web Services technology, clients developing applications can reportedly quickly become automotive experts, without having to stray from their own development environments. Because the data is hosted and maintained by Chrome, clients no longer need to distribute data updates, manage a hosting environment or invest in massive computing power. Additionally, clients pay on a transaction basis, a benefit for any business that requires this type of information on a case-by-case basis, such as a lender or an insurance company.

Chrome’s N.A.D.A. Valuation Service is available immediately and will be featured at Booth 3221 during the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) 88th Annual Convention and Exposition in New Orleans, Jan. 29 – Feb. 1, 2005.