VOLVO is to launch a battle plan to encourage sales of high-mileage ex-fleet cars in a bid to bolster residual values for customers.

The car maker is expanding its Volvo Selected Used Car Programme to create high demand for top-quality ex-fleet Volvos.

It has reduced warranty prices for dealers and customers. It has also raised the bar for standards achieved by its used car refurbishment programme.

Volvo will hold an award ceremony to reward its dealer network and recognise dealers that meet or exceed the firm's targets. The first winners will be announced in January 2003.

A spokesman said: 'The criteria for the Volvo Selected Used Car of the Year Awards is based upon the quality of the presentation of cars and their preparation, excellent levels of customer handling and care, together with achieving certain internal volume targets.

'The proportion of Volvo's mix of business and private sales has changed a lot over the last few years, and it's obviously better if these cars are prepared and sold with the backing of the Volvo Selected Used Car programme. These changes have been made to accommodate them and offer a wider range on the forecourt.'

The new programme was announced to Volvo dealers in January with the aim of stimulating them to buy more cars with 60,000-plus miles on the clock to support residual values across the range and reduce wholelife costs for both fleet and retail customers.