Data from the latest Manheim Market Analysis report suggests average used car values within the fleet sector declined by 1.2 per cent last month. The study details a £78 reduction in average values, down to £6,634, but the vehicle auctioneers believe that this slight decline is in fact encouraging when factoring in seasonal demand. Daren Wiseman, valuation services general manager at Manheim Auctions, said: "The fall in fleet values of 1.2 per cent is surprisingly encouraging with market and economic pressures still present. "This fall in values represents no more than the seasonal norm and must be seen as a positive in such a challenging trading environment. Interestingly we are now seeing renewed interest in 4x4s as prices have now reached a point at which they are perceived as excellent value for money." There were some significant movements in the value of used car fleet vehicles. Superminis fell 3.6 per cent; Compact Executives were down 4.8 per cent, while MPVs fell considerably by 10.3 per cent. The average age of used car fleet vehicles remained the same at a total of 50 months, while the average mileage increased by 644 miles to 59,687. "However, a word of caution, we still advise that values and reserves are set realistically in this sector in order to generate retail interest from a market that has limited appetite for them at the moment," added Mr Wiseman. It is still possible for businesses to pick up a bargain. At IT Fleet Automotive our purpose built, state-of-the-art 12-acre complex hosts twice weekly fleet cars sales, bringing vehicle re-marketing into the 21st Century. You can visit The Fleet Auction Group website to preview upcoming auctions and current stocks lists today.
