As the home to Stellantis and numerous automotive tech companies, it is fitting that the leading e-commerce platform for buying and selling pre-owned vehicles online has decided to build its largest Michigan vehicle showcase and fulfillment center right here in the City of Auburn Hills.  The total investment is estimated at $15 million.

We are pleased to report that Phoenix-based Carvana has submitted a development application to the City for approval to build a 12-story state-of-the-art steel and glass “car vending machine” adjacent to Topgolf Auburn Hills on Great Lakes Crossing Drive. 

Carvana is the fastest-growing auto retailer in the U.S., and it has achieved this with its unique e-commerce fulfillment center business model.  On Carvana.com, customers can shop an inventory of more than 30,000 pre-owned vehicles, finance, purchase, and schedule as-soon-as-next-day delivery or pick-up at a Carvana location.  Customers can also sell their current vehicle to Carvana and receive a real offer in just minutes – even without purchasing a vehicle.

Carvana has been able to separate itself from other internet auto sales companies by offering its customers a physical location, like the future Carvana Auburn Hills, where they can pick up their vehicles.  Carvana currently operates 33 vending machines across the country.

Those interested in learning more about this proposal are encouraged to attend the Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Wednesday, September 14th at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall.  A final decision on the application is anticipated by the City Council on Monday, September 26th.

If granted site plan approval from the City Council, Carvana is targeting a construction start in late 2023 or early 2024.  The project will take ten months to complete after groundbreaking.  Thus, the facility is anticipated to open in Fall 2024.

Steve Cohen, Director of Community Development