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Mileage adds up for used van buyers seeking bargains
publication date: Jan 7, 2010
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author/source: Robin Roberts
Forget full service history, unmarked paintwork along
with pristine interior condition, and a blue-chip company name in the
V5 – the majority of retail customers continue to focus on mileage when
selecting used light commercial vehicles, according to George
Alexander, Editor of Glass’s Guide to Commercial Vehicle Values.
Where condition is good, yet mileage is high, it is causing real
problems for vendors. Being unlikely to command a good resale price,
these vehicles fall into the distress-selling category.
Alexander comments, “Many would argue that the overall condition of a
van or truck is more relevant to its intrinsic worth than distance
covered. However, what the odometer reveals about a commercial
vehicle’s past life is an undeniably crucial factor in the sales
equation.
“Currently, popular vans that have travelled less than 40,000 miles are
good news, whilst between 50,000 and 75,000 there is every chance of a
profitable sale for nice clean stock. Retail business is still
attainable on the best older vans up to 100,000 miles, but above this
point, customer resistance sets in.
“When the odometer reading is well in excess of 100,000, only the best
examples of premium-brand panel vans will provide the trade with a
reasonable profit. Consequently, most dealers no longer consider the
hassle factor that accompanies high mileage to be worth the risk.”
Alexander concludes, “As rental and fleet vendors are the source of
most late-year light LCVs, and with more lease contracts being extended
in response to customers’ reluctance to buy new, an increasing
proportion of 3.5-tonne vans could become un-retailable.” | | | Citroën’s popular Berlingo First 1.6HDi 75hp 600kg panel van enters 2010 with a significant specification boost.
This
already well equipped van is now fitted with a ‘Plus Pack’ as standard.
This adds high-frequency remote control central locking, electric front
windows and electrically adjustable/heated door mirrors to the Berlingo
First specification. In addition, for 2010, the Berlingo First van also
gains a near-side sliding side load door as part of its standard
equipment. |  | Charles Peugeot, head of commercial vehicles and
business sector sales, comments, “The well-proven Berlingo First
continues to be a popular budget choice for van buyers. The latest
Berlingo First specification upgrade will further enhance the appeal of
this evergreen model.”
Effective 1st January 2010, the newly
enhanced Berlingo First has an MRB price of £11,335. To this you must
add VAT, delivery to dealer, plates, Government First Registration Fee
and Vehicle Excise Duty. | | |
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