Auto Trader rolls out omnichannel solution for dealers

Auto Trader’s omnichannel solution, Deal Builder, is now available to all FCA authorised used car dealers to trial in order to provide consumers with a seamless online-offline retailing experience. Dealers can manage deals through their Auto Trader Portal account. Deal Builder will eventually be incorporated into Auto Trader’s API solution, Auto Trader Connect, so dealers… Continue reading Auto Trader rolls out omnichannel solution for dealers

Kia UK hosts dealers for diversity event at its Kia Academy in Derby

Kia UK hosted an event at its new Kia Academy in Derby on 16 April which saw dealers including Acorn Motor Group, Perrys Motor Sales and Allen Motor Group share progress that has been made with regards to equity, diversity and inclusion. In a post on LinkedIn, Gemma Benbow, director of people & organisation at… Continue reading Kia UK hosts dealers for diversity event at its Kia Academy in Derby

Independent dealers ‘reluctant’ to stock EVs

Just 17% of independent dealers stocked and advertised an EV last month compared to 43% of franchised dealers and 49% of car supermarkets, according to data from cap hpi. EV volumes are expected to increase in the coming months, many models are attractively priced. Derren Martin, director of valuations at cap hpi, said: “Our data… Continue reading Independent dealers ‘reluctant’ to stock EVs

Dealer Focus 2024: Digital profitability

Digital was transformed during the pandemic when dealers, carmakers and systems providers transformed the customer journey in buying cars. Consumers went through a series of digitally enabled steps, starting with the website, video chat, configuration of the car online, a VR rest drive through do digital finance quote, signature and taking deposits online. It was… Continue reading Dealer Focus 2024: Digital profitability

Close Brothers targets dealers in Ireland with Bluestone rebranding

Following its acquisition by Close Brothers, Bluestone Motor Finance (Ireland) has now completed its rebranding. Over 650 motor dealers and partners will now offer motor finance under the Close Brothers Motor Finance brand name. They will also have access to a broader lending appetite and a wider product and technology portfolio. Managing Director Donal Murphy,… Continue reading Close Brothers targets dealers in Ireland with Bluestone rebranding

Dealers see 52% surge in pre-registrations year-on-year

  Dealers are seeing a surge in pre-registrations as the market reverts to a pre-pandemic push market with big incentives to shift stock. According to Auto Trader, the number of pre-registrations last month in the March plate-change rocketed 52% compared to March 2023. Auto Trader uses the criteria of under 100 miles on the clock… Continue reading Dealers see 52% surge in pre-registrations year-on-year

Dealers treat consumers ‘fairly’ in motor finance transactions – SURVEY

October 2013 Dealers have turned in a strong performance in a consumer motor finance satisfaction survey carried out by technology firm iVendi. The survey of 1,000 car buyers asked a series of questions about the online motor finance process with 87% saying it was fair and transparent, 82% that they felt in control and 85%… Continue reading Dealers treat consumers ‘fairly’ in motor finance transactions – SURVEY

Dealers hammer carmakers for lack of on-site EV charging support

Lack of support from carmakers on dealer electric vehicle charging infrastructure is the biggest bugbear for dealers. The latest Dealer Attitude Survey from the National Franchised Dealers Association found dealers worried about on site charging and carmaker support. The question got a score of 5.2 out of 10, the lowest returning score for the entire… Continue reading Dealers hammer carmakers for lack of on-site EV charging support

Dealers encouraged to monitor stock in light of ICE ban delay

Almost a third of motorists welcome the petrol and diesel ban delay as it will allow more time for EV infrastructure improvements and technology advancement, according to Close Brothers Motor Finance. The research finds 28% of motorists expect this will give manufacturers time to improve EV technology and extend battery range while 27% expect initial… Continue reading Dealers encouraged to monitor stock in light of ICE ban delay

BCA reports stable February used car values

Used car values at BCA remained stable in February as a result of increasing buyer engagement and strong competition for vehicles. Used car values averaged £7,564 at BCA in February, down by £33 (0.4%) compared to January. However, used car values are still 9.4% ahead of the December 2023 low point. Buyer appetite for stock… Continue reading BCA reports stable February used car values