MORE and more drivers are opting to buy their vehicles at the end of their lease contracts, according to contract hire group ING Car Lease.

The drivers are purchasing their vehicles for another family member or even a neighbour.

Ian Tilbrook, managing director at ING Car Lease, said: 'Take-up of end-of-contract hire vehicles by drivers is growing, with many drivers choosing to buy a car for their grown-up children or spouses. Some drivers have even provided their neighbours with the chance to buy their vehicle.'

ING Car Lease has re-launched its Driver Sales Service as ING Premier Purchase, a scheme which enables drivers to buy end-of-contract vehicles for friends and family.

A spokeswoman said: 'We have seen the scheme grow because in the past, people weren't initially aware of it. Since the re-launch more and more people are taking advantage of it.'

Buying an end-of-contract vehicle provides added benefits to the purchaser. Tilbrook said: 'Buying a secondhand car can be risky.

Unfortunately the reliable, low mileage, one careful owner, full history, tax and MoT vehicle doesn't occur very often, meaning purchasers can lose out if they don't know what to look for.'

ING Car Lease's Premier Purchase scheme allows associates of ING's contract hire drivers to buy ex-contract vehicles at competitive prices including 12 months mechanical breakdown, insurance and assistance.

Tilbrook added: 'Because buying a used car privately can be problematic, ING Premier Purchase is a good opportunity for drivers to share the benefits of their contract hire vehicles and for buyers to take advantage of a vehicle with a full and genuine history.'

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