Operators turned to smaller used vans in March, countering rising fuel prices.
Aston Barclay’s latest desirability index reveals that six out of the top 15 LCVs were smaller panel vans, as operators searched for more efficient models.
The top five vans in the March index were the Mercedes-Benz Vito, VW Transporter and Crafter, and the Ford Transit Custom and Transit Courier.
Explaining the trend, Geoff Flood, Aston Barclay’s national LCV sales manager, said: “Since fuel prices have dramatically risen, we have started to see the market shift towards smaller vans that are most cost-effective to run. Demand still exceeds supply across the entire used market, but we have seen a noticeable change in the current buying strategy from dealers towards smaller vans in March.”
Pickups also remain in high demand with five featuring in Aston Barclay’s top 15 – including the Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi L200, Toyota Hilux, Isuzu D-Max and Nissan Navara. Demand was seen from both SMEs and larger fleets, fuelled by the continued growth in building and construction projects.
“Any pickup less than eight years of age is making strong money. Some of the nearly new models are being purchased by rental companies as they look to grow their fleet, as new vehicles continue to suffer from long lead times,” continued Flood.
Aston Barclay’s monthly index provides a definitive snapshot of used market trends, based on three key metrics: web views prior to sale, number of physical and online bids per sale, and the sale price achieved as a percentage of CAP average.
