Autobytel.com Joins DoubleClick Network

DoubleClick Inc. said that auto sales operation Autobytel.com inc. is joining DoubleClick’s ad network.

The company also said it is opening an office in Detroit and has hired Anne W. Steinhauer as regional account manager, strategic sales, to head the office.

“The automotive industry recognizes the power of the Internet as a highly effective marketing and sales tool,” said Jonathan Shapiro, vice president of business development for DoubleClick. “With the addition of Autobytel.com to the DoubleClick Auto category, advertisers have an unequaled opportunity to reach the online auto-buying consumer. With the expected increases in automotive ad spending online, our new Detroit office is an important cornerstone of our network sales efforts.”

The DoubleClick automotive category includes Kelley Blue Book, Automobile Magazine, Popular Mechanics and various country-specific auto sites. Automotive advertising clients include Acura, Cadillac, Chevron, Chevy, Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Isuzu, Midas, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen and Volvo.

“Autobytel.com is committed to creating a positive consumer experience,” said Anne Benvenuto, Autobytel.com’s senior vice president, marketing. “When it came to adding advertising to our site, we were extremely diligent in reviewing our choices. DoubleClick, and its strong network of advertisers, is clearly the right fit with Autobytel.com’s sophisticated demographics.”

Steinhauer was previously vice president, associate media director for W.B. Doner & Company, and also worked in media for Foote, Cone & Belding and Hal Riney & Partners.