Dealers pass through Electric Vehicle Approved scheme

The number of dealers who have passed through the Electric Vehicle Approved scheme has now reached 50. The scheme, endorsed by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV), was launched by the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) in May. The scheme aims to recognise expertise in the electric vehicle sector and promote industry standards for… Continue reading Dealers pass through Electric Vehicle Approved scheme

Physical dealerships to remain important to used car retail

A “clicks and mortar” dealership model appears set to dominate used car retail in the immediate future. New research for Startline Motor Finance indicates that although 64.3% of dealers plan to invest in online finance in the next 12 months, 84.2% of dealers believe it is important that the customer visits their showroom. Similarly, 55.3%… Continue reading Physical dealerships to remain important to used car retail

Waylands installs defibrillators at all of its dealerships

The Waylands Group has defibrillators installed on all its sites. It is also offering their use to neighbouring businesses and residents, should they find themselves in need of lifesaving first aid equipment in an emergency. John O’Hanlon, CEO of Waylands, said: “We place strong emphasis on ensuring the first aid training provided to our team… Continue reading Waylands installs defibrillators at all of its dealerships

Dealers see a rise in online inquiries as consent rates increase

UK car dealers experienced a pronounced rise in online inquiries during Q3 of 2019. Marketing Delivery reports that more than 162,000 inbound online inquiries received by car retailers throughout the UK, a 20% increase in total enquiry volumes compared to Q3 2018. Email remains customers’ most preferred method of contact, and capture rates on email… Continue reading Dealers see a rise in online inquiries as consent rates increase

Dealers target EV and hybrid stock as average prices rise

The used car market gained significant momentum during Q3. Demand was strong and conversion rates rose to the mid 90% during September according to the latest market insights report from Aston Barclay. Average prices of used EVs and hybrids reached their highest since the insights report was launched in 2017 at £14,012, while sub 24-month… Continue reading Dealers target EV and hybrid stock as average prices rise

FJ Chalke to open new eco-friendly Kia and Nissan dealerships in Yeovil

FJ Chalke Limited will open a multi-million pound Kia and Nissan eco-dealership at Fusion Park, Yeovil in November. The new state of the art showroom will have space for up to 20 display vehicles and 150 vehicles on the external forecourt. The site also features 10 charging points. The showroom has been fitted with a rain… Continue reading FJ Chalke to open new eco-friendly Kia and Nissan dealerships in Yeovil

New car buyers stick to franchised dealers despite online trend

Franchised dealerships are the first choice for 93% of new car buyers. The NFDA Consumer Attitude Survey revealed that 75% of car purchases, for cars under seven years old, are made at franchised dealers, 14% are made at independent garages, 5% at used car supermarkets and 5% from private sellers. It also found that 50%… Continue reading New car buyers stick to franchised dealers despite online trend

UK dealers adapt to accommodate new EV standards, practices and roles

This year may be remembered as the year electric vehicles entered the mainstream. EVs and AFVs have consistently seen the largest percentage increases in registrations through H1 of 2019 and there were an overwhelming number of EVs and AFVs on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Given that the motor retail sector has been selling… Continue reading UK dealers adapt to accommodate new EV standards, practices and roles

Dealers stay up to date with online technology to drive motor finance

Technology is becoming increasingly important in motor finance as the customer journey goes online. A report from Cox Automotive recently revealed that 60% of dealers will have online purchasing services up and running in the next two years, making the ability to secure finance easily online a must. Chris Jones, COO of Blue Motor Finance,… Continue reading Dealers stay up to date with online technology to drive motor finance

RMI calls Brexit deal ‘vital’ to future of UK dealers

The Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI) has called on Government to provide clarity on future trade with EU for automotive retailers. RMI chairman Peter Johnson, speaking at this year’s 106th Retail Motor Industry Federation annual dinner, said: “It is vital that the government agrees a Brexit deal with the EU. If it cannot, then prices… Continue reading RMI calls Brexit deal ‘vital’ to future of UK dealers