AutoNation, Inc (NYSE: AN) has appointed Ravi Simhambhatla as Chief Technology and AI Officer, effective October 1, 2026. He will lead the company’s technology, data science and artificial intelligence functions as AutoNation expands its use of digital tools across its automotive retail operations.
Mr Simhambhatla brings more than 30 years of experience in enterprise technology, digital transformation, data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, product development and customer experience. He joins AutoNation from Avis Budget Group, where he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Digital and Innovation Officer.
At Avis Budget Group, Mr Simhambhatla was responsible for global technology, product, data, engineering, infrastructure and cybersecurity. He also led initiatives involving artificial intelligence and connected-fleet technology. Before joining Avis Budget Group, Simhambhatla served as a Managing Director at Google Cloud, where he advised large enterprises on cloud, data and AI transformation. He has also held senior technology roles at United Airlines, where he worked across commercial systems, digital commerce, loyalty and revenue management.
Earlier in his career, Mr Simhambhatla was Chief Technology Officer at Aer Lingus, Vice President of Information Technology at Tesla and Chief Information Officer at Virgin America. At Virgin America, he was involved in developing the airline’s digital and e-commerce platforms.
Mike Manley, Chief Executive Officer of AutoNation, said technology, data science and AI would help the company make greater use of its existing brands, physical infrastructure and scale. He said Simhambhatla’s experience across airlines, automotive-related businesses and global technology organisations would support AutoNation’s efforts to expand its business.
Commenting on his appointment, Ravi Simhambhatla said he looked forward to applying technology and AI to improve the customer journey, provide employees with better tools and insights and support AutoNation’s growth. In his new role, Mr Simhambhatla will oversee the company’s technology and data capabilities as AutoNation continues to integrate digital systems into its automotive retail operations. His responsibilities will include technology strategy, data science and artificial intelligence, with a focus on applications that can support customers, employees and business operations.
AutoNation is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States. The company operates a nationwide network of dealerships offering new and used vehicles, automotive financing, parts, maintenance and repair services. Its business is supported by a portfolio of automotive brands and physical retail locations across the US. AutoNation also operates customer service and vehicle support activities across its network.
Through its DRV PNK initiative, AutoNation has raised and donated more than $50 million to cancer-related causes. The programme forms part of the company’s community engagement efforts supporting employees, customers and communities. The appointment of Mr Simhambhatla adds an executive with experience across technology, data, cloud computing and AI to AutoNation’s leadership team. The company said his experience will support its efforts to use technology to improve operations and customer service while pursuing further growth.
