Average values for fleet and lease cars were £9,588 in December, a fall of £190 (1.9%) compared to November’s figure of £9,778, according to BCA’s latest Pulse Report. 

However, compared to December 2014, average fleet and lease values were up by £462 (5%), with both performance against CAP Clean and retained value up on 2014.  

Simon Henstock, BCA UK chief operating officer remarketing, commented: “December is a short month for trading and both the market sector mix and model mix tend to change quite significantly.  Fleet and lease stock is typically in more limited supply in December, whilst dealers continue to sell part-exchange vehicles as a result of their ongoing retail activity.  There is still a competitive trading environment in December as professional buyers look to source the most attractive, retail-ready stock to meet on-going customer demand, while also keeping an eye out for stock suitable for the January upturn.”

He added:  “The early days of trading in 2016 have been exceptionally busy and with the new plate on March 1st 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.”  

Year-on-year table: Fleet and lease