FLEETS are transforming their success at auction with a Smart approach, according to British Car Auctions. The percentage of ex-fleet stock selling first time has risen from 70-80% to in excess of 90% for those which have been through the BCA Smart Prepared system.

A 90% conversion rate is a bonus for fleets, cutting the cost of holding the vehicle and putting it through another sale at a time when residual values are continuing to suffer. BCA says Smart Prepared vehicles are fetching at the very least £200 more than non-prepared vehicles. The service is being offered at six sites - Blackbushe, Brighouse, Manchester Belle Vue, Nottingham, London and Measham - with Dent Wizard (body repairs), Car Brite (interior and exterior) and Dupont (paint repairs).

Ron Hope, BCA Smart Prepared director, said: 'It is a remarketing tool which allows the seller to target the market he wants.' BCA has seen ex-fleet models which have been Smart Prepared bought by dealers and car supermarkets ready for immediate sale, whereas traditionally they have been sold to traders. The operation has been launched in Germany and Denmark, with Spain and Austria to follow later this year.