Dubai-based AI-driven automotive solutions provider Seez has announced its proposed acquisition by Pinewood Technologies Group PLC ("Pinewood.AI") for an equity value of $46.2 million.
From Disruptive Startup to Global AI Leader
Seez was founded in 2016 by Tarek Kabrit and Andrew Kabrit with a bold vision: an app that could identify any vehicle from a single picture—akin to "Shazam for cars." This innovative approach quickly gained traction, attracting nearly three million users. As the automotive landscape evolved, so did Seez, transitioning from a widely used mobile app into a global leader in AI-powered automotive solutions.
Currently operating in 16 markets across regions from Mexico to Australia, Seez has developed a robust AI- and machine learning-powered SaaS platform. The company’s offerings include an AI virtual assistant, e-commerce and omnichannel modules, and AI-driven digital marketing services. Serving Tier 1 clients such as leading automotive dealer groups, OEMs, and online classifieds, Seez has also forged strategic partnerships with top financial, insurance, and SaaS providers worldwide. As of December 2024, Seez reported an annual recurring revenue of $4.4 million—a fivefold increase from the previous year—with projections to triple by December 2025.
A Strategic Acquisition for the Future of Automotive Retail
The acquisition by Pinewood.AI marks a significant milestone for both companies. Seez brings cutting-edge AI capabilities, a strong customer base, and solid financial growth to Pinewood.AI, which currently operates across 1,300 dealership rooftops with a high-margin, recurring revenue model.
Lithia Motors Inc., Pinewood’s parent company and the world’s largest dealer group, strongly backs this acquisition. Plans are already in motion to integrate Seez’s AI Virtual Assistant, Seezar, across Lithia’s global network of dealerships, enhancing customer interactions and streamlining operations.
Driving Innovation in the Automotive Industry
Tarek Kabrit, CEO of Seez, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, "We are thrilled to join forces with Pinewood at such a pivotal moment in the automotive industry. By combining our advanced AI-driven solutions with Pinewood’s proprietary data and deep dealer integrations, we are creating a next-generation platform that will empower dealerships with smarter, more efficient tools to drive growth."
He further emphasized that this partnership accelerates Pinewood’s expansion into the North American market while reshaping the way dealers engage with technology. "The future of automotive retail is intelligent, autonomous, and data-driven—and we couldn’t have asked for a better partner to make that future a reality."
Bill Burman, CEO of Pinewood.AI, highlighted the strategic importance of the acquisition, noting, "Seez is an outstanding company that has developed highly sophisticated AI and machine learning products that are increasingly critical to the automotive retail market. Their solutions align seamlessly with our own Automotive Intelligence Platform."
A New Era for Automotive AI
This acquisition positions Seez and Pinewood.AI as pioneers in the automotive technology sector. Together, they aim to drive innovation, enhance dealership efficiency, and improve customer experiences through a secure, AI-powered, end-to-end cloud-based ecosystem.
With AI becoming an integral part of automotive retail, the synergy between Seez and Pinewood.AI signals a new era of intelligent and data-driven solutions for the industry.