Average fleet/lease values fell in December in line with seasonal trends, latest BCA figures show.

Average fleet/lease values fell in December in-line with seasonal trends.

Pulse data for December shows the average value decreased by £290 (3.3%) to £8,341 compared to the previous month as demand softened in the run-up to the year-end period. While demand for good quality stock remained high, there was pressure on values for poorly presented, higher mileage vehicles. A change in market sector mix also contributed to the decline in the headline value as a larger percentage of dealer Part-Exchange cars were sold in December compared to the previous month.

Year-on-year, average values were up by £295 (3.6%), with age and mileage falling. 

Average values in the fleet and lease sector fell for the second month running, from £9,995 in November to £9,665 in December, a fall of £330 or 3.3%. Retained value against original MRP (Manufacturers Retail Price) fell slightly to 41.11%, while year on year values were up by just £77 (0.8%), with both age and mileage declining. 

Simon Henstock, BCA chief operating officer UK remarketing, commented: “December is the shortest trading month of the year and both the market sector mix and model mix tend to change quite significantly. Fleet and lease stock is typically in more limited supply, whilst dealers continue to sell part-exchange vehicles as a result of their ongoing retail activity.”

He continued: “The early days of trading in 2017 have been exceptionally busy and with the new plate on 1 March only weeks away, we are entering one of the busiest periods for the motor trade.  Sourcing and securing those best quality retail cars will be critical for professional buyers in the weeks ahead and buying the right stock at a good price and in a timely fashion is crucial.”