VAUXHALL is piloting a new initiative to retain aftersales service and maintenance work within its dealer network for ex-fleet vehicles.

The manufacturer has teamed up with Manheim Auctions and Vauxhall Masterhire to create a 'peace of mind' package for buyers of ex-fleet Vauxhalls that will keep the cars returning to the franchise network.

The package, called Vauxhall Connections, will provide free MoT test insurance, a 50% discount off the Vauxhall Winter Pack of car care products, and entry into a prize draw.

Trade buyers of ex-fleet Vauxhalls will be provided with money-off vouchers for a range of products supplied through Vauxhall's Trade Club programme. Initially the pilot scheme will operate from Manheim Auctions Leicester site and will apply to ex-Vauxhall Masterhire and Vauxhall Finance vehicles sold during October and November.

Window displays will identify qualifying cars, and Vauxhall will measure the success of the programme by the subsequent redemption of Vauxhall Connections vouchers. Stuart Cover, auction manager at Manheim Auctions in Leicester, said: 'This initiative will give added value to the buyer when purchasing a Vauxhall product at auction.

'We are sure that both Vauxhall Masterhire and Vauxhall Finance will also enjoy a positive effect on residual values.'