Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

DriveTime


DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. is an American used-car retailer and finance company headquartered in , specializing in the sale and in-house financing of pre-owned vehicles through a "" model targeted at subprime borrowers.
Originating as Rent-A-Car System, Inc., founded in 1977 in , by Thomas S. Duck Sr., the company shifted to used-car sales and financing after acquisition by in 1990 following its bankruptcy. It went public in 1996, expanded rapidly to become the largest such chain by 1997, and was renamed DriveTime in 2002 after a led by Garcia, who retained majority ownership. By 2003, the company operated 80 lots across eight states with annual sales exceeding $729 million. Today, DriveTime maintains approximately 148 dealerships nationwide, offering over 9,000 vehicles with features like no-haggle pricing, a 5-day return policy, and limited warranties, while approving financing for millions of customers regardless of . Its emphasizes onsite vehicle repairs and proprietary credit assessment to serve low-income and credit-impaired individuals, though it has faced regulatory action, including an $8 million civil penalty from the in 2023 for unfair practices.

Overview

Business Model and Services

DriveTime employs a vertically integrated that spans vehicle acquisition, reconditioning, sales, marketing, , financing, and loan servicing, enabling the company to control the entire customer lifecycle for purchases. This approach facilitates in-house financing for approximately 99 percent of its customers, who are predominantly individuals with subprime , no , or limited credit profiles, through a "" structure that bypasses traditional third-party lenders. The company's primary service is the retail sale of pre-owned vehicles, including cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs, sourced from auctions and other channels, with an online inventory typically exceeding 9,000 units available for browsing. Customers can apply for financing online without a inquiry impact, receiving personalized and monthly payment terms based on factors such as verification rather than solely credit scores. DriveTime operates over 145 physical dealerships across 25 states, where sales occur with no-haggle pricing to streamline the process. Additional services include a 5-day/500-mile return guarantee, a 30-day/1,500-mile limited warranty, and complimentary AutoCheck vehicle history reports to enhance buyer . The firm also provides trade-in evaluations and supports payment flexibility, such as automated clearinghouse options for bi-weekly or monthly installments, while reporting loan performance to credit bureaus to aid customer rebuilding. This model emphasizes accessibility for credit-challenged buyers, with focused on employment stability and over conventional credit metrics.

Operational Scale and Market Position

DriveTime maintains a network of 149 dealerships across 25 states in the United States as of September 2025, concentrating operations in high-population regions such as the Southwest, Southeast, and Midwest. These locations facilitate the sale of over 9,000 used vehicles in at any given time, primarily sedans, SUVs, and trucks sourced through auctions and trade-ins, with an emphasis on vehicles under 10 years old and with mileage below 100,000. The company's vertically integrated model combines retail sales with in-house financing, enabling rapid processing of subprime loans directly at dealerships without reliance on third-party lenders for origination. With approximately 3,437 employees, DriveTime supports its operational footprint through a focused on , financing, reconditioning, and collections, headquartered in . Annual stands at around $922 million, derived predominantly from vehicle and interest income on financed contracts, reflecting steady growth in the subprime segment despite broader market fluctuations in pricing post-2022. In the used car , DriveTime occupies a specialized niche as a leading provider of and financing services to subprime borrowers—those with scores typically below 600—who represent about 20-25% of originations industry-wide. Unlike traditional dealers dependent on bank partnerships, its buy-here-pay-here approach allows approval rates exceeding 80% for qualified applicants, often at annualized percentage rates (APRs) ranging from 15% to 25% or higher, positioning it ahead of fragmented competitors like regional independents but behind larger non-prime lenders such as Consumer USA in overall volume. This focus has sustained its role as a key originator of deep subprime receivables, securitizing billions in contracts annually for investor funding, though it faces for aggressive collections and repossessions amid borrower rates historically above 30%. DriveTime's stems from its 40+ years of experience in non-prime lending, enabling adaptation to economic cycles where subprime demand persists during recoveries.

History

Origins with Ugly Duckling (1977–2001)

Rent-A-Car System, Inc. was established in 1977 in , by Thomas S. Duck, Sr., a 63-year-old retired executive who initially invested $10,000 to sell before a rent-a-car operation. The business expanded to 550 franchises, generating $65 million in annual sales by the late 1980s, but encountered financial difficulties amid competitive pressures in the rental market, culminating in in 1989. In 1990, acquired the bankrupt company's assets through his firm Duck Ventures, Inc., for less than $1 million, merging them with a small operation to pivot toward retailing used vehicles to subprime borrowers via in-house financing with elevated interest rates to offset default risks. Garcia incorporated Holdings, Inc. in 1992, securing initial dealerships in and Tucson; subsequent expansions included acquiring three lots in 1993 and, in 1994, constructing four upscale superstores while purchasing Champion Financial Services, which managed $1.9 million in contracts, though one underperforming site was shuttered. Revenues climbed to $58.2 million in 1995, primarily from $47.8 million in car sales, despite a $4 million net loss tied to operational scaling and credit losses. The company went public in 1996 on under the ticker UGLY, issuing 3.1 million shares at $6.75 each to raise $17.8 million, which halved debt from $49.8 million to $26.9 million as the stock price advanced to $15 amid broader market enthusiasm for subprime auto retail. That year, revenues reached $75.6 million with $5.9 million in net earnings, supporting further growth including 1997 acquisitions of five dealerships bundled with $35 million in finance contracts and seven sites for $26.3 million, expanding to 24 locations by August and driving revenues to $191 million alongside $9.4 million in profits. To appeal to credit-challenged buyers, introduced services like on-site tax preparation, refundable down payments, prepaid cards seeded with $250 deposits, and integrated repairs, though persistent defaults and rivalry from entrants like strained margins. By 2001, annual revenues approximated $600 million, but escalating loan delinquencies precipitated a stock plunge from $25 to $2.50 per share, prompting Garcia to privatize the firm for $18 million and refocus amid sector headwinds.

Formation and Early DriveTime Years (2002–2010)

In early , Ernest C. Garcia II, who held a 65% stake in Corporation, partnered with CEO Gregory Sullivan to acquire the remaining shares in a $15.5 million , taking the company private and increasing Garcia's ownership to 92%. The restructured entity was renamed DriveTime Automotive Group Inc., effective September 1, , shifting focus to a streamlined brand emphasizing in-house financing for subprime used-car buyers. At formation, DriveTime operated 76 dealerships across eight states, primarily in the southwestern U.S., building on Ugly Duckling's prior network while adopting a private structure to pursue aggressive internal growth without public market pressures. Post-renaming, DriveTime prioritized operational enhancements, including a $10 million advertising campaign in 2003 via and Partners, featuring radio and spots to broaden its customer base among credit-challenged consumers. The company invested in to computerize vehicle inventories and processes, yielding $729 million in and 2,049 employees by year-end 2003. Under Garcia's chairmanship, DriveTime maintained a vertically integrated model, handling financing, reconditioning, and in-house to control costs and defaults in its subprime segment. Expansion accelerated from 2004 onward, with announcements in November 2004 to increase from 75 to 100 locations within two years, targeting markets in , , , and additional southwestern sites, supported by 2,100 employees and consistent $729 million revenue. New stores opened in , and , in 2005, followed by over 90 sites across nine states by 2006 under CEO Ray Fidel. The 100th dealership launched in , in 2007, coinciding with a new loan-servicing center in , that initially hired 100 staff with plans for 300 more to manage growing portfolios. By 2010, DriveTime operated around 83 dealerships and eyed further entry into markets like , reflecting steady geographic diversification amid cycles.

Expansion and Maturation (2011–Present)

In 2011, DriveTime expanded its dealership network by opening a net of four new locations, building on its established model of integrated vehicle sales and subprime financing. That , the company launched GFC Lending LLC, operating as GO Financial, to diversify into indirect subprime auto lending through third-party dealers, aiming to broaden origination channels beyond its own stores. To strengthen its capital position amid post-recession market conditions, DriveTime sold a $700 million portfolio of finance receivables to Consumer USA in September , retaining servicing rights while monetizing assets for reinvestment in inventory and operations. This transaction supported a 7% increase in unit sales for the year, driving total revenue to $1.2 billion and demonstrating resilience in subprime demand. GO Financial's operations were wound down in 2016 as DriveTime refocused on its core direct-lending model, citing strategic alignment with in-house underwriting strengths over indirect channels. Concurrently, the company advanced its practices, issuing multiple asset-backed securities transactions; by 2017, it had completed 19 non-bond-insured securitizations since 2010, enabling efficient funding of loan originations through capital markets. A 2011 policy shift delayed charge-offs to better reflect recovery potential, contributing to improved portfolio performance metrics in subsequent years. DriveTime's maturation emphasized operational efficiencies, including enhanced reconditioning processes and data-driven , while maintaining a nationwide footprint. As of September 2025, the company operates 149 dealerships across the , reflecting steady, selective growth in key markets rather than aggressive expansion. Ongoing warehouse facilities, totaling $1.2 billion available as of March 2025, underscore sustained liquidity for inventory acquisition and loan funding.

Affiliated Entities and Spin-offs

Bridgecrest Acceptance Corporation

Bridgecrest Acceptance Corporation (BAC) is a entity focused on auto , servicing, and payment management, operating as an affiliate of DriveTime Automotive Group. Launched in April 2016 as a rebranded and independent servicing division of DriveTime, BAC handles installment contracts for vehicle purchases financed through DriveTime and related entities, functioning as a licensed third-party servicer to streamline post-sale financing operations. Incorporated in December 2009 and based in , BAC holds NMLS ID 1573795 as a company, enabling it to provide direct financing while separating servicing from DriveTime's retail activities. BAC's core services include originating loans for subprime borrowers, managing account s via online portals, phone, or in-person options, and handling collections, repossessions, and credit reporting. Customers access self-service tools on bridgecrest.com for payoff quotes, scheduling, and account updates, with fees applied for certain methods such as phone s ($4.95 where permitted). In addition to DriveTime-originated loans, BAC services financing for affiliates like , overseeing processing, address changes, and compliance activities. The company supports DriveTime's business model by facilitating asset-backed s, such as through the Bridgecrest Lending Securitization Trust, which pools and issues notes backed by serviced loans to institutional investors. As a key component of DriveTime's , BAC enables scalability in financing non-prime profiles, contributing to the group's expansion beyond into specialized operations. Its structure as a distinct entity allows for focused and operational efficiency, though it remains integrated with DriveTime's and vehicle reconditioning processes.

Carvana

Carvana Co. originated as a subsidiary of DriveTime Automotive Group, Inc., a used car retailer and financier owned by Ernest Garcia II. Founded in 2012 by Ernest Garcia III—Garcia II's son and former DriveTime executive—the company pioneered an e-commerce platform for buying and selling used vehicles, emphasizing online inspections, 360-degree photos, and automated vending machine delivery points. Garcia III, who served in various roles at DriveTime from 2007 to 2013, received an initial $100 million investment from his father to launch Carvana, which was initially incubated within DriveTime's operations. The from DriveTime occurred around 2015, establishing as a standalone entity while Garcia II retained significant ownership as a major shareholder. went public in 2017 via an on the under the ticker CVNA, raising capital to expand its digital marketplace model distinct from DriveTime's brick-and-mortar dealerships focused on subprime auto financing. Despite the separation, familial and operational ties persist; Garcia II's control of DriveTime influences related-party transactions, including reimbursements and sourcing arrangements facilitated through DriveTime affiliate Bridgecrest Acceptance . These interconnections have drawn scrutiny, particularly regarding accounting practices and tied to DriveTime's servicing role, as highlighted in a 2025 report alleging potential overstatements in Carvana's financials due to deferred from service contracts routed through related entities. Carvana's platform has grown to handle over 300,000 vehicle sales annually by 2023, leveraging DriveTime's inventory expertise while operating independently in the competitive online segment. The affiliation underscores a strategic evolution from DriveTime's traditional model, though ongoing dependencies raise questions about operational autonomy.

Other Ventures (GO Financial and SilverRock Group)

GO Financial, launched by DriveTime Automotive Group in December 2011 as GFC Lending LLC doing business as GO Financial, specialized in subprime auto financing extended to independent dealerships through an indirect lending model. The venture was structured as a and operated independently, with ownership held by DriveTime Chairman Ernie Garcia II and President Ray Fidel. By 2015, GO Financial had originated 47,500 auto loans, focusing on subprime borrowers. However, in May 2016, the company ceased new loan originations and began winding down operations, impacting approximately 65,000 existing contracts and leading to layoffs of about 41 employees; this decision aligned with DriveTime's strategic refocus away from third-party indirect lending amid competitive pressures in the subprime market. SilverRock Group, Inc., another DriveTime established in 2015, provides automotive finance and insurance (F&I) products including vehicle service contracts, extended , , and tire-and-wheel protection primarily to used vehicle retailers and their customers. The company, majority-owned by Garcia II and Ray Fidel, expanded its offerings to support DriveTime's in-house sales as well as external dealers, leveraging DriveTime's developed internal expertise in and protection products. In late 2015, Automotive acquired a minority stake in SilverRock Holdings, LLC (the parent entity), enabling further growth in F&I services while maintaining operational independence. SilverRock continues to administer limited and repair claims for vehicles sold by DriveTime and its affiliate , with customers accessing $0-deductible repairs at in-network facilities for the initial 30 days or 1,500 miles post-purchase. As of 2025, it remains an active affiliate, processing claims through dedicated support channels and partnering with repair networks to handle mechanical issues on covered vehicles.

Financial Performance and Strategy

Revenue Sources and Securitization Practices

DriveTime's primary revenue sources consist of used vehicle sales and interest income from in-house financing of those sales to subprime borrowers. The company originates retail installment sales contracts at its dealerships, financing nearly all vehicle purchases through its proprietary underwriting model, which evaluates customer creditworthiness using factors beyond traditional scores. In the first quarter of 2013, vehicle sales generated $309.5 million, representing about 80% of total revenue, while interest income from the loan portfolio contributed $75.0 million, or roughly 19%. Ancillary income, such as from dealer finance arrangements and other services, added $2.8 million. The business model integrates vehicle acquisition (primarily via auctions, accounting for 95% of inventory), reconditioning at centralized facilities, and bundled sales with financing terms typically spanning 36 to 48 months, often including a DriveCare warranty. To manage liquidity and fund , DriveTime employs of its auto loan pools, transferring ownership of seasoned and performing installment contracts to bankruptcy-remote special purpose entities. These pools, consisting of subprime contracts originated by DriveTime Car Sales, are securitized into asset-backed securities () issued through trusts such as Bridgecrest Lending Auto Securitization Trust or DT Auto Owner Trust, with cash flows from principal, interest, and fees servicing the notes. Servicing, including collections and repossessions, is performed by affiliate Bridgecrest Acceptance Corporation under accepted subprime practices. The process begins with warehouse facilities for initial loan funding—DriveTime maintained $1.2 billion in available warehouse capacity as of March 31, 2025, with $376.5 million outstanding—followed by term s to refinance and offload exposure. Since 2009, DriveTime has executed multiple securitizations totaling billions in issuance volume, with rating agencies providing surveillance on outstanding deals. For instance, as of mid-2024, tracked 16 active auto loan ABS transactions backed by DriveTime-originated pools, emphasizing collateral performance metrics like cumulative net losses and delinquency rates. In July 2024, DriveTime announced plans for a $573.7 million (potentially upsized to $680 million) auto ABS issuance, marking a return to the market amid stable subprime sector dynamics. KBRA and have assigned ratings to recent Bridgecrest trusts, citing DriveTime's 30+ years of subprime origination experience and operational controls as supportive factors, though noting inherent credit risks in the borrower base. DriveTime Automotive Group, a privately held entity, discloses limited financial data primarily through securitization filings and rating agency analyses rather than comprehensive public reports. Key operational metrics include dealership count and originations, with 149 locations operating as of June 30, 2025. In the first quarter of 2025, the company originated $1.2 billion in new , a 9% increase from $1.1 billion in the prior-year quarter, reflecting steady demand in the subprime auto financing segment. Revenue for Q1 2025 totaled $971.8 million, up 2% year-over-year, driven by vehicle sales and interest income from a managed receivables of $15.8 billion as of March 31, 2025. rose sharply to $23.14 million in the same period, a 441% improvement from $4.28 million in Q1 2024, indicating enhanced operational efficiency amid moderating used-vehicle pricing pressures. The company reported a net loss of $69.3 million for the full year ended December 31, 2023, attributed in part to higher credit losses and economic headwinds in the subprime market. Recovery trends emerged in 2024, with pretax income of $18.3 million in Q1 and $31.5 million in Q2, followed by further gains into 2025, including $66.7 million in pretax income for a subsequent quarter ending June 30, 2025. These improvements coincide with active activity, such as a July 2024 asset-backed securities issuance targeting at least $573.7 million, underscoring reliance on capital markets for liquidity and portfolio management. Annual revenue estimates from third-party aggregators vary significantly—ranging from $750 million to $2.7 billion—due to differing methodologies and the inclusion of amortized , highlighting challenges in assessing without audited disclosures. Overall, recent financial trajectories show stabilization post-2023 losses, supported by modest and profitability rebound, though vulnerability to fluctuations and subprime delinquency rates persists in rating agency outlooks.

Competitive Landscape

Primary Competitors

DriveTime's primary competitors in the used vehicle retail and subprime auto financing markets include large-scale retailers like , which operates approximately 240 superstores across the as of 2024 and emphasizes a no-haggle pricing model with extended warranties, though it generally serves customers with stronger credit profiles compared to DriveTime's subprime focus. , another major player, manages over 300 locations nationwide and integrates sales with financing options, often through third-party lenders, competing directly in volume-driven used vehicle transactions but with less emphasis on in-house . In the specialized subprime financing niche, Credit Acceptance Corporation stands out as a key rival, providing non-recourse loan programs to independent dealerships for high-risk borrowers; the company originated over $2.5 billion in loans in 2023, enabling dealers to finance subprime purchases similar to DriveTime's buy-here-pay-here model but without direct vehicle retail ownership. Santander Consumer USA, a subsidiary of Banco Santander, competes aggressively in non-prime auto lending, originating around $10 billion in retail installment contracts annually as of 2023, primarily through partnerships with franchised and independent dealers targeting credit-challenged consumers. Other notable buy-here-pay-here operators, such as America's Car-Mart, mirror DriveTime's integrated -and-financing approach, operating about 140 lots primarily in the southern and midwestern U.S. with a focus on subprime customers, reporting vehicle of approximately $1.4 billion in fiscal 2024. These competitors collectively challenge DriveTime's in serving credit-impaired buyers, though differences in scale, geographic footprint, and financing structures—such as Credit Acceptance's dealer-centric model versus DriveTime's owned —shape their respective niches.

Differentiators and Market Niche

DriveTime occupies a specialized niche in the subprime segment of the used vehicle market, targeting customers with limited or damaged histories who face barriers to traditional financing. As the second-largest U.S. retailer dedicated exclusively to used vehicles, the company serves individuals seeking affordable transportation options, often those ineligible for prime lending due to factors like recent bankruptcies or low scores. This focus enables DriveTime to capture a segment where conventional dealerships and banks typically decline applications, emphasizing accessibility over stringent requirements. A core differentiator is DriveTime's proprietary credit scoring model, a centralized system that automates decisions using applicant data beyond standard metrics, facilitating approvals for over 3 million customers historically. Unlike traditional lenders reliant on scores, this model assesses risk through in-house algorithms, allowing flexible terms such as minimal down payments and bi-weekly payments tailored to subprime profiles. The company's —encompassing retail sales, captive financing, and loan servicing via affiliate Bridgecrest—provides end-to-end control, enabling rapid and resale of vehicles in case of default, which mitigates losses in high-risk portfolios. Additional features set DriveTime apart from broader-market competitors like or online platforms such as , which prioritize prime-credit buyers or no-haggle experiences without deep subprime integration. DriveTime offers no-haggle pricing, a 5-day return guarantee, a 30-day/1,500-mile limited , and free AutoCheck vehicle history reports, fostering in transactions. With 148 dealerships nationwide and an online exceeding 9,300 vehicles, it combines physical accessibility for hands-on inspections with digital pre-approvals that reveal personalized terms without inquiries, streamlining the process for underserved buyers.

Controversies and Criticisms

Regulatory Actions and Penalties

In November 2014, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued its first enforcement action against a buy-here-pay-here auto dealer, targeting DriveTime Automotive Group, Inc. and its financing affiliate, DT Acceptance Corporation, for alleged unfair debt collection practices and inaccurate credit reporting. The CFPB found that DriveTime made excessive collection calls to consumers at inconvenient times, including up to six calls per day to the same number and repeated calls to workplaces despite requests to stop, which it deemed unfair under the Consumer Financial Protection Act as these practices caused substantial injury without sufficient consumer benefit or alternatives. Additionally, the agency alleged that DriveTime furnished incomplete or inaccurate information to credit reporting companies, such as failing to note paid-off accounts or correct erroneous late payment reports, violating the Fair Credit Reporting Act and its implementing Regulation V. Under the consent order, DriveTime agreed to pay an $8 million civil money penalty to the CFPB and provide approximately $2.75 million in redress to affected consumers, including deleting certain negative tradelines from credit reports and compensating those who paid extra fees due to reporting errors. The company committed to ceasing prohibited collection tactics, such as workplace calls upon request and excessive contact frequencies; implementing a comprehensive compliance plan for debt collection and credit reporting; and undergoing independent audits for five years. DriveTime neither admitted nor denied the CFPB's findings, stating in response that the settlement allowed it to avoid protracted litigation while maintaining its focus on serving subprime customers. No major federal or state regulatory penalties against DriveTime have been reported since the 2014 action, though the company has faced private lawsuits alleging violations of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act related to automated calls, separate from government enforcement. The CFPB's intervention highlighted risks in in-house financing models for subprime lenders, prompting industry-wide scrutiny of collection and reporting practices.

Customer and Operational Complaints

DriveTime has encountered significant customer complaints related to vehicle quality, financing practices, and post-sale support, as evidenced by aggregated consumer feedback platforms. The (BBB) records 774 complaints against the company over the last three years, with 280 resolved or closed in the past 12 months, covering issues such as defective vehicles, billing disputes, and unresponsive service. Independent review sites like report an average rating of 2.3 out of 5 from 2,163 customer submissions, highlighting frequent dissatisfaction with car reliability shortly after purchase and difficulties in warranty claims. Operational complaints have centered on and credit reporting deficiencies, prompting regulatory intervention. In November 2014, the (CFPB) imposed an $8 million civil penalty on DriveTime for engaging in unfair tactics, including excessive and harassing phone calls to consumers—sometimes multiple times daily—and for systematically providing inaccurate delinquency information to credit bureaus, which damaged customers' scores. As part of the consent order, DriveTime was mandated to halt these practices, implement accurate credit reporting systems, and provide remediation to affected consumers. State-level actions have addressed sales and inspection shortcomings. In a settlement announced by , DriveTime agreed to pay nearly $80,000 in restitution to affected consumers for allegedly misrepresenting the thoroughness of its pre-sale inspections, leading to undisclosed mechanical issues post-purchase. Customer reports and class-action allegations have also flagged instances of vehicles sold with prior damage or issues without proper disclosure, contributing to higher-than-expected repair costs for subprime buyers reliant on limited warranties. These patterns reflect operational challenges in maintaining inventory standards for high-risk lending segments, where rapid turnover may prioritize volume over exhaustive vetting.

Responses, Achievements, and Economic Rationale

In response to the 2014 (CFPB) enforcement action alleging unfair practices and inaccurate reporting, DriveTime agreed to pay an $8 million civil money penalty and implement reforms, including ceasing certain collection tactics and improving reporting accuracy, without admitting or denying the allegations. Similarly, following a 2023 CFPB order for violations involving add-on products and , the company paid another $8 million penalty and agreed to end the practices, refund affected consumers, and enhance compliance processes. DriveTime has maintained that its operations target high-risk borrowers who lack access to traditional financing, emphasizing internal servicing capabilities to manage defaults effectively amid elevated risks. DriveTime has achieved notable operational milestones, including over 30 years as a subprime finance originator and servicer, with historical sales exceeding 500,000 vehicles and $4 billion in loans issued as of earlier reports. In 2025, it ranked in the top three among used car-only retailers per Automotive News, reflecting sustained market presence. The company has also received multiple Comparably awards over three consecutive years for employee perks, benefits, and well-being, alongside a Automation Award from for accounting innovations. These recognitions underscore internal efficiencies supporting expansion, including recent issuances exceeding $573 million in asset-backed securities. The economic rationale for DriveTime's model lies in its focus on subprime borrowers excluded from prime lending, where high interest rates and fees compensate for default rates often exceeding 20-30% in the sector, enabling portfolio yields that sustain profitability through and recoveries. Ratings agencies have affirmed its competitive edge via experienced management and stable performance across economic cycles, as in-house financing and bulk vehicle acquisitions allow cost controls and rapid portfolio scaling not feasible for diversified lenders. This approach fills a gap, providing vehicle access that supports borrower and mobility, though at elevated costs justified by the required for non-prime extension.

Impact and Broader Context

Service to Subprime Borrowers

DriveTime specializes in providing in-house financing for used vehicles to subprime borrowers, including those with low scores, inconsistent histories, or recent bankruptcies and repossessions, through its buy-here-pay-here model. This approach enables approvals for customers often denied by traditional lenders, using a proprietary scoring system tailored to deep subprime profiles with average scores around 539. Operating 148 dealerships across the , the company offers personalized down payments, flexible monthly terms without initial credit inquiries, and features like no-haggle pricing, a 5-day return policy, and a 30-day/1,500-mile limited to facilitate access to reliable transportation. The typical DriveTime customer earns between $37,000 and $50,000 annually, reflecting a focus on working-class individuals for whom vehicle ownership supports and daily mobility in areas with inadequate public transit options. By integrating reconditioning, sales, , and servicing, DriveTime mitigates risks associated with while extending to underserved segments, having originated and managed subprime auto loans for over 30 years with demonstrated origination and servicing capabilities. Since 2002, it has sold more than 600,000 used cars to customers across credit spectra, with subprime financing comprising the core of its , and has issued over $4 billion in loans while servicing around 145,000 accounts. This service addresses a market gap by offering viable alternatives such as smaller down payments or cosigner options to reduce lender exposure, potentially allowing borrowers to refinance on improved terms after building . Pre-approval processes provide budget transparency, empowering subprime buyers to negotiate confidently despite higher interest rates inherent to their risk profiles. Overall, DriveTime's model supports economic participation for credit-constrained individuals by prioritizing over stringent prime lending criteria.

Industry Influence and Innovations

DriveTime pioneered a vertically integrated in the used car retail sector, combining vehicle sales, in-house financing, and servicing to target subprime borrowers, which allowed for streamlined operations and customized loan approvals based on a proprietary credit scoring system rather than solely relying on traditional scores. This approach, emphasizing bulk inventory purchases and internal , enabled the company to extend credit to customers often excluded by conventional lenders, thereby expanding market access in the subprime segment. In terms of technological innovations, DriveTime introduced AI-driven document in October 2022 through a with Informed.IQ, permitting customers to upload required paperwork digitally and receive automated reviews in seconds, which accelerated the approval process and reduced manual errors in . Earlier, in February 2018, the company launched an advanced mobile to enhance digital retailing, allowing users to browse inventory, estimate payments, and initiate applications remotely, marking an early push toward experiences in subprime auto sales. These tools, supported by web-based systems for customer portals and loan management, have positioned DriveTime at the intersection of technology and . The company's influence extends to shaping industry practices in subprime auto financing, particularly through its origination of loans securitized into asset-backed securities, as evidenced by ongoing issuances like the May 2025 Bridgecrest transaction involving installment contracts. By launching Bridgecrest Corporation in 2016 as a dedicated third-party servicer for its loans and those of affiliates, DriveTime demonstrated scalable servicing models that other lenders have emulated to manage high-volume, high-risk portfolios efficiently. This specialization has contributed to the maturation of the subprime market, where such integrated operations help mitigate default risks via proprietary while broadening vehicle ownership among credit-challenged demographics, though it has also drawn regulatory attention to standards across the sector.

References

  1. [1]
    DriveTime | Shop Used Cars & Financing Online
    Used Car Shopping & Simple Auto Financing solutions start here. Choose from 9317 vehicles and Apply Online now!Search Cars · Careers · Find a Dealership · Get Your Terms
  2. [2]
    History of DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. - Reference For Business
    DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. is a leading independent retailer of used automobiles in the United States. Using a "buy here/pay here" financing model, the ...
  3. [3]
    DriveTime Automotive Group, Inc. and DT Acceptance Corp
    Aug 8, 2023 · CFPB took action against a “buy-here, pay-here” car dealer. DriveTime must pay $8,000,000 as a civil money penalty, end its unfair debt ...Missing: controversies | Show results with:controversies
  4. [4]
    DriveTime Automotive Group, Inc. - SEC.gov
    We have developed a business model that integrates our vehicle acquisition, reconditioning, sales, marketing, underwriting and finance, loan servicing, and ...
  5. [5]
    [PDF] DriveTime - Case Study - Toshiba Business Solutions
    It finances and services car loans for 99 percent of its customers, which is part of the company's distinctive market focus on serving customers who may have ...
  6. [6]
    [PDF] Drivetime Cloud-Based Customer Service Portal | Neudesic
    DriveTime offers customers several payment options, such as an automated clearinghouse deposit system, through which customers with bank accounts can schedule ...<|separator|>
  7. [7]
    DriveTime Review 2024/2025: Your Complete A–Z Guide to Buying ...
    Jun 3, 2025 · DriveTime is a national used car dealership and auto financing company that caters specifically to individuals with bad credit, no credit, or ...
  8. [8]
    Number of DriveTime locations in the USA in 2025 - ScrapeHero
    Sep 10, 2025 · There are 149 DriveTime locations in the United States as of September 10, 2025. The state/territory with the most number of DriveTime ...
  9. [9]
    DriveTime Information - RocketReach
    DriveTime is a Retail, Motor Vehicles, and Auto Sales company located in Tempe, Arizona with $922.1 million in revenue and 3437 employees.<|separator|>
  10. [10]
    DriveTime Automotive Company Profile - Datanyze
    What is DriveTime Automotive revenue? DriveTime Automotive revenue is $907.8 M. How many employees does DriveTime Automotive have? DriveTime Automotive has ...Missing: scale | Show results with:scale<|separator|>
  11. [11]
    KBRA Affirms and Upgrades Ratings from DT Auto Owner Trust and ...
    Jul 23, 2025 · DriveTime has been in the subprime auto finance business for over 30 years and has proven to be a capable originator and servicer of auto loans ...Missing: position | Show results with:position
  12. [12]
    History of DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. – FundingUniverse
    The Ugly Duckling story began in 1977 when Ugly Duckling Rent-A-Car System, Inc. was formed in Tucson by 63-year-old Thomas S. Duck, Sr., a retired insurance ...
  13. [13]
    How An Ex-Con Became A Billionaire From Used Cars - Forbes
    Dec 18, 2017 · Ernest Garcia II has a $2.5 billion net worth thanks to his ownership of DriveTime, the nation's fourth-biggest used car retailer, ...
  14. [14]
    DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. - Company-Histories.com
    2002: Ugly Duckling is taken private in a management buyout, becoming DriveTime Automotive Group. ... Champion became a subsidiary and Darak became Ugly ...
  15. [15]
    Drivetime History: Founding, Timeline, and Milestones - Zippia
    A complete timeline of Drivetime's History from founding to present including key milestones and major events.
  16. [16]
    DriveTime 93 Used Car Stores And Counting CEO Ray Fidel Named ...
    Sep 1, 2006 · With a lineup of 93 used car stores scattered around the country, Ray Fidel, the CEO of DriveTime, gets to tour the frontlines often.
  17. [17]
    DriveTime used-car chain coming to Birmingham and Pelham - al.com
    Aug 20, 2010 · ... expanding into metro Birmingham. DriveTime, which has 83 dealerships across the country, plans on opening locations in Pelham and Birmingham ...
  18. [18]
    DriveTime to Sell Portfolio, Dealerships - Auto Finance News
    Sep 19, 2012 · Santander Consumer USA has inked a deal to acquire DriveTime Automotive Group's $700 million portfolio of finance receivables, which ...Missing: growth | Show results with:growth
  19. [19]
    DriveTime Generates Sales & Origination Growth in 2012
    DriveTime reports significant growth in 2012, with a 7% rise in unit sales and total revenue increasing to $1.2 billion. Discover key insights from their ...Missing: strategy | Show results with:strategy
  20. [20]
    DriveTime opts to wind down GO Financial - Auto Remarketing
    May 12, 2016 · ... DriveTime owners chose to wind down GO Financial, which launched back in 2011. Bachinsky explained the reasoning behind ownership's decision ...Missing: strategy | Show results with:strategy
  21. [21]
    Presale: DT Auto Owner Trust 2017-1 | S&P Global Ratings
    LLC's (DriveTime's) 19th non-bond-insured securitization that S&P Global Ratings will rate since 2010. DriveTime also completed a rated stand-alone transaction, ...
  22. [22]
    Presale: DT Auto Owner Trust 2020-1 | S&P Global Ratings
    Jan 23, 2020 · DriveTime uses extensions as a loss-mitigation tool. According to the transaction documents, the company currently limits extensions to 6.00% ...
  23. [23]
    DriveTime rebrands servicing division, launching Bridgecrest
    Apr 5, 2016 · Sax highlighted that DriveTime formed a project team last summer and that group went to work beginning in October to get Bridgecrest Acceptance ...<|separator|>
  24. [24]
    Bridgecrest.com: Homepage
    The path to car ownership in your hands. Log in, register account, we've made payments easy, pay in a way that fits your schedule and lifestyle.FAQs · Payment Options · Customer Support Center · Terms of Use
  25. [25]
    Bridgecrest | BBB Business Profile | Better Business Bureau
    BBB File Opened: 3/16/2016 ; Business Started: 2/19/2003 ; Business Incorporated: 12/30/2009 ; Type of Entity: Corporation ; Alternate Names: Bridgecrest Credit ...
  26. [26]
    FAQs - Bridgecrest.com
    Bridgecrest Acceptance provides financing to consumers and assists them with making payments on their accounts, and Bridgecrest Credit is a loan servicing ...
  27. [27]
    Payment Options | Bridgecrest.com
    Make a payment over the phone at any time. $4.95 fee applies, where permissible. Call for phone payments: 800-967-8526. Pay In-Person.
  28. [28]
    Financing and Bridgecrest | Help Center - Carvana
    Bridgecrest is responsible for managing your payments, credit reporting, collection activities, repossession proceedings, changes in residence, name changes ...
  29. [29]
    Presale: Bridgecrest Lending Auto Securitization | S&P Global Ratings
    (i)Formerly known as DT Acceptance Corp. Rationale. The preliminary ratings assigned to Bridgecrest Lending Auto Securitization Trust 2024-3's (BLAST 2024-3) ...
  30. [30]
    Bridgecrest Acceptance Corp - Company Profile and News
    Bridgecrest Acceptance Corporation offers financial services. The Company provides car and vehicle loans and online payment services.
  31. [31]
    Form 8-K - SEC.gov
    Oct 27, 2023 · Entry into a Material Definitive Agreement. Bridgecrest Acceptance Corporation (“BAC”) and Bridgecrest Auto Funding LLC (“BAF”) entered into ...Missing: history | Show results with:history
  32. [32]
    Carvana Starts the Slow Climb Back Up to Recovery - Car and Driver
    Mar 23, 2024 · Though supportive—Carvana began as a subsidiary of DriveTime before being spun off—Garcia the Elder was skeptical, according to his son, and ...
  33. [33]
    Ernie Garcia, III - Carvana Investor Relations
    Prior to founding Carvana, Mr. Garcia held various roles at the DriveTime Automotive Group, Inc. from January 2007 to January 2013. From January 2007 to ...
  34. [34]
    Carvana targets redemption after bankruptcy concerns, restructuring
    Feb 2, 2024 · Carvana went public three years after spinning off from a Garcia-owned company called DriveTime, a private company owned by the elder Garcia ...
  35. [35]
    Why Hindenburg Research calls Carvana's accounting methods 'a ...
    Jan 14, 2025 · Likely due to the father-son relationship between the two companies' CEOs, DriveTime and Carvana have a deal where reimbursements from warranty ...
  36. [36]
    Carvana: A Father-Son Accounting Grift For The Ages
    Jan 2, 2025 · ... the Garcia family. Platt acted as a banker for DriveTime (then called Ugly Duckling) stretching as far back as 1998, per SEC records. He is ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  37. [37]
    Carvana: Delineating Its Ebbs And Flows (NYSE:CVNA)
    Jan 8, 2025 · In addition, Carvana is a spin-off of DriveTime Automotive Group, maintaining close relations ever since. An example of the Carvana-DriveTime ...
  38. [38]
    Manheim Signs Agreement to Purchase Stake in Go Financial
    Go Financial is owned by DriveTime Chairman Ernie Garcia and DriveTime President and CEO Ray Fidel. Go Financial will operate independently from Manheim and ...
  39. [39]
    GO Financial Exits Indirect Channel - F&I and Showroom
    May 12, 2016 · Founded in 2011 as a spinoff company of Tempe-based DriveTime Automotive, GO Financial's 2015 originations totaled 47,500. This past November, ...Missing: ventures | Show results with:ventures
  40. [40]
    Breaking news: Go Financial stops lending, lays off 41 people
    May 12, 2016 · ... DriveTime in 2011 and spun it out as a separate company in December 2013. ... SilverRock will hire another 100 people as it builds out its ...Missing: date | Show results with:date
  41. [41]
    DriveTime seeking new CEO as longtime leader steps down
    Jan 5, 2018 · ... Ugly Duckling in 2002. The company was founded in Tucson as a rent-a-car business in 1977. DriveTime has over 140 dealerships nationwide ...
  42. [42]
    Cox Automotive Invests in Silverrock Holdings, Enters F&I Space
    Jan 28, 2016 · DriveTime Automotive Group, Inc. is the largest used car dealer and financing company helping people with credit issues find and finance ...
  43. [43]
    Cox Automotive Invests in SilverRock Holdings, Enters F&I Space
    Jan 28, 2016 · The transaction closed on December 31, 2015. SilverRock Holdings, LLC owns the following warranty and insurance companies: SilverRock Automotive ...
  44. [44]
    Coverage - SilverRock Repairs
    You have a $0 deductible when visiting an In-Network repair facility! This coverage is available to all customers for the first 30 days / 1,500 miles after ...
  45. [45]
    SILVERROCK INC
    DriveTime customers, visit silverrockhelp.com to find out what to do if your vehicle is in need of repair. Contains step-by-step instructions and a map to ...
  46. [46]
    DriveTime prepares to issue at least $573.7 million in auto ABS
    Jul 12, 2024 · DriveTime Automotive Group is returning to the securitization market to raise $573.7 million in asset-backed securities, which can be upsized to $680 million.Missing: practices | Show results with:practices
  47. [47]
    Morningstar DBRS Assigns Provisional Credit Ratings to Bridgecrest ...
    May 12, 2025 · The transaction represents a securitization of a portfolio of motor vehicle installment sales contracts originated by DriveTime Car Sales ...Missing: practices | Show results with:practices
  48. [48]
    Presale: Bridgecrest Lending Auto Securitization | S&P Global Ratings
    Oct 8, 2025 · As of June 30, 2025, DriveTime operated 149 dealerships and 17 ... net income/loss before income taxes of $66.7 million and $18.3 ...
  49. [49]
    Presale: Bridgecrest Lending Auto Securitization | S&P Global Ratings
    Oct 10, 2024 · As of June 30, 2024, DriveTime operated 149 dealerships and 17 ... net income before income taxes of $18.3 million and $31.5 million, respectively ...
  50. [50]
    DriveTime Company Overview, Contact Details & Competitors
    DriveTime, the largest privately owned used car sales and finance company in ... DriveTime was founded in 2002. DriveTime. RetailArizona ...<|separator|>
  51. [51]
    DriveTime Company Profile - The Business Journals
    Industry: retailer; Revenue: $2.7B [1]; Employees: 4,368 [2]; Contact. drivetime.com · 888-418-1212. 1720 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe, AZ 85281.Missing: sources | Show results with:sources
  52. [52]
    DriveTime Competitors and Alternatives - Owler
    DriveTime's top 15 competitors are CarMax, AutoNation, Vroom, Instamotor, CARite, Autotrader, Auto Credit Financial Services, Don Moore Automotive Team, Tred, ...Missing: primary | Show results with:primary
  53. [53]
    DriveTime Automotive - Overview, News & Similar companies
    Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, DriveTime is an American used car retailer, operating 137 dealerships in 26 states.<|separator|>
  54. [54]
    Comparison Analysis of Top Subprime Lenders: A Cautionary Tale ...
    Jan 7, 2025 · Santander Consumer USA is a subsidiary of Santander Bank, focusing on subprime auto financing with a strong presence in the subprime market.
  55. [55]
  56. [56]
    Shop Used Cars & Financing Online - DriveTime
    We operate 148 dealerships across the nation and we've helped more than ... Copyright © 2017 - 2025 - DriveTime® All Rights Reserved. Search & Finance.
  57. [57]
    Help with Financing or Purchasing a Vehicle - DriveTime
    It only takes two minutes to get approved online. Simply fill in your name, address, monthly income, date of birth and social security number and you will ...
  58. [58]
    Top 9,847 Reviews From Legit DriveTime Buyers - Consumer Affairs
    Rating 4.4 (9,847) DriveTime has more than just a wide array of used cars at fair prices. Additional features like a five-day vehicle return policy and a 30-day/1,500-mile limited ...About DriveTime · Best Car Dealerships · Page 5<|control11|><|separator|>
  59. [59]
    Used Car Auto Loans at DriveTime
    Your terms with no hit to your credit! Unlock your personalized down payment and monthly payment in two clicks.
  60. [60]
    CFPB Takes First Action Against 'Buy-Here, Pay-Here' Auto Dealer
    Nov 19, 2014 · DriveTime must pay $8,000,000 as a civil money penalty, end its unfair debt collection tactics, fix its credit reporting practices, and arrange ...
  61. [61]
    [PDF] 2014-CFPB-0017 Document 1 Filed 11/19/2014 Page 1 of 31
    Nov 19, 2014 · The Bureau has identified the following law violations: (1) DriveTime committed unfair acts and practices in violation of the Consumer Financial ...
  62. [62]
    EXCLUSIVE: DriveTime Responds to $8M Fine From CFPB
    Nov 20, 2014 · CFPB officials said late Wednesday that DriveTime harmed consumers by making harassing debt collection calls and providing inaccurate credit ...
  63. [63]
    TCPA Class Action Lawsuit May Cost DriveTime Millions
    Jan 22, 2015 · A Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) class action lawsuit was filed in Arizona alleging that DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. made unauthorized robocalls ...
  64. [64]
    DriveTime | BBB Complaints | Better Business Bureau
    We are expected to pay $21,000 for a vehicle that has been in the shop more than it has been in our possession and we were lied to by our salesman, ************ ...Missing: controversies | Show results with:controversies
  65. [65]
    Read Customer Service Reviews of drivetime.com - Yelp
    Rating 2.3 (2,163) DriveTime has an average rating of 2.3 from 2163 reviews. The rating indicates that most customers are generally dissatisfied. The official website is drivetime ...
  66. [66]
    Bought a Car from DriveTime Car Sales? - Auto Fraud Legal Center
    Our clients allege DriveTime dealerships have sold them cars with accident damage without telling them about that damage prior to the sale.Missing: operational | Show results with:operational<|separator|>
  67. [67]
    DriveTime Automotive Group Inc. | S&P Global Ratings
    May 10, 2016 · The stable outlook reflects our expectation that DriveTime will maintain its unique competitive position within the subprime auto market, as a ...
  68. [68]
    Life At DriveTime - Facebook
    Jul 25, 2025 · Celebrate with us!​ We're proud to share that DriveTime has been ranked in the Top 3 on Automotive News' list of Used Car-Only Retailers in ...
  69. [69]
    DriveTime's 3-Year Comparably Awards Winning Streak - Instagram
    Oct 7, 2025 · DriveTime's commitment to employee well-being and opportunities has earned them a 3-year winning streak of Comparably Awards.Missing: milestones | Show results with:milestones
  70. [70]
    #differencemakers #lifeatdrivetime #awards | DriveTime - LinkedIn
    Jun 20, 2025 · As we wrap up another great quarter of business, DriveTime is excited to share that we have been honored with four awards from Comparably as ...Missing: milestones | Show results with:milestones
  71. [71]
    Culture at The Drivetime Family of Brands
    The Drivetime crew is a team of innovators and engineers, dreamers and believers, morning people and night owls, techies and talkies.
  72. [72]
    Lessons On U.S. Subprime Auto Loan ABS Performance
    Aug 20, 2024 · Our research on subprime auto lenders' managed portfolio performance revealed a historical pattern of rapid growth followed by performance ...
  73. [73]
    DriveTime - martini.ai
    Sep 2, 2025 · Given DriveTime's focus on the subprime auto loan market ... DriveTime's financial health and competitive positioning in the used car market.
  74. [74]
    Bad Credit Auto Loans - Smaller Down Payments - DriveTime
    Even after bankruptcy, you can find a car and financing with a bad credit auto loan. There are three simple steps to begin working towards a bad credit auto ...
  75. [75]
    Presale: DT Auto Owner Trust 2019-3 | S&P Global Ratings
    The company operates in the deep subprime market, lending to consumers with ... Through DTSFC, its integrated used car sales and finance company, DriveTime ...Missing: position | Show results with:position
  76. [76]
    Manheim Creates Joint Venture With Drivetime
    ATLANTA – Manheim announced today the creation of Go Auto Exchange, LLC - a new joint venture with DriveTime, the nation's largest subprime credit used car ...
  77. [77]
    DriveTime and Informed.IQ partner to automate and revolutionize ...
    Oct 12, 2022 · DriveTime has created a process for customers to digitally upload their documents and receive a review response within seconds through the use of AI.Missing: business | Show results with:business
  78. [78]
    DriveTime Launches Cutting Edge Mobile Site; Digital Retailing ...
    Feb 13, 2018 · DriveTime, the nation's second largest used vehicle retailer focused solely on used vehicle sales, today announced its launch of a new mobile site.
  79. [79]
    DriveTime Recognized as Best Place to Work in Technology by ...
    Jun 24, 2015 · Multiple teams develop proprietary, web ... systems, manage DriveTime's online properties, including DriveTime.com and customer portals.
  80. [80]
    DriveTime Continues Integration of Dealership Experience and ...
    Apr 5, 2016 · The new company will be a licensed third-party servicer, servicing loans for DriveTime and other affiliated finance companies.