Carvana Teams Up with Shaq to Launch AI-Powered Shaqbot

Carvana has partnered with Shaquille O'Neal to launch the world's first AI-powered Shaqbot. The AI assistant is designed to make car shopping simpler, easier, and more fun, using Shaq's voice, wit, and personality. The partnership includes a national ad campaign, Shaqvana.com microsite, Shaqbot AI assistant, and Shaq Filter vehicle search experience. This marks the first time Carvana has embedded a celebrity voice and persona directly into its customer experience.

Carvana, a leading online platform for buying and selling used cars, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with basketball legend and entrepreneur Shaquille O’Neal. The collaboration, which marks Carvana’s first embedding of a celebrity voice and persona into its customer experience, introduces the world’s first AI-powered Shaqbot.

Shaqbot is designed to simplify, ease, and entertain the car-buying process by integrating Shaq’s signature voice, wit, and personality into Carvana’s digital platform. Utilizing real voice recordings and custom response logic, the AI assistant helps customers browse inventory, answer questions, and navigate the online car-buying journey with a touch of fun.

The partnership encompasses several initiatives, including:
- National Ad Campaign: Broadcast and digital spots featuring O’Neal, highlighting how Carvana can enhance the car-buying experience.
- Shaqvana.com: A microsite offering Shaq-approved vehicle selections, campaign content, and interaction with Shaqbot.
- Shaqbot: The AI-powered assistant, leveraging AI logic and text-to-speech capabilities to guide, assist, and entertain customers in Shaq’s voice.
- Shaq Filter: A vehicle search experience tailored to Shaq’s preferences, such as roomy interiors, high horsepower, and sunroofs.

Carvana’s Chief Brand Officer, Ryan Keeton, praised the collaboration, stating, “Shaq is a perfect fit for Carvana. He brings a unique blend of personality, heart, and innovative ideas. The Shaqbot is one of our most unique creations, showcasing the power of technology, creativity, and fun.”

Shaquille O’Neal, who has been a long-time fan of Carvana’s innovative approach to car buying, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “Carvana’s ease and innovation are what drew me in, and now other fans can enjoy a little fun with Shaqbot,” he said.

This partnership signifies a strategic move by Carvana to enhance its digital experience and attract a broader audience. By leveraging O’Neal’s widespread appeal and integrating his personality into its platform, Carvana aims to differentiate itself in the competitive automotive market.