CU Direct said it has rolled out the next generation of itsonline auto shopping platform.

The revamped CUDL AutoSMART features more than 1.5 million vehicles indealer inventory and provides a streamlined user experience thatconveys the feeling of walking through a car lot, the Ontario,Calif.-based lending, automotive and strategic services CUSOsaid.

Members can shop across multiple devices, including smartphonesand tablets, and apply for auto loans.A soft touch log-in alsoenables members to save search results.

Currently more than 1,000 credit unions are using AutoSMART,according to the company.

CU Direct said the next generation of AutoSMART can help creditunions that are facing an increasingly competitive landscape forthe acquisition of auto loans.

In the first quarter, credit unions captured 23% of all autoloan originations and continued to increase their market share,with auto loans comprising 31% of their total portfolio, accordingto CU Direct. Leasing and other finance segments remaincompetitive threats, the CUSO noted.

Earlier this year, CU Direct created the North American Automotive Marketing Council to help creditunions from across the U.S. and Canada identify opportunities toexpand market presence and increase auto lending,