The Vanbase supermarket in Bristol will debut a new RAC Approved Dealer standard for LCVs when it opens this month, bringing added confidence for used van buyers.
The new 2.2-acre LCV supermarket marks the first move into the LCV sector for Carbase, which already operates car supermarkets from various sites in the West, and will be supported by the launch of the new RAC Approved Dealer standard for vans.
Previously limited to cars, the standard includes preparation criteria specifically for vans under 3.5 tonnes along with a three-month RAC warranty, 12 months of breakdown cover, a vehicle data check and enrolment to RAC Accident Care. This package will be provided as part of every used vehicle sold by Vanbase.
Customers will also be offered the opportunity to extend their warranty as well as purchase RAC Service Plan and GAP products alongside a bespoke hire and reward warranty, again constructed specifically for Vanbase and LCV buyers.
The new products have been created and delivered by Assurant, which partners with the RAC in providing and administering warranties and related solutions.
Sean Kent, RAC sales director at Assurant, explained: “We have been looking to extend our presence into the LCV sector for some time and the launch of Vanbase provided a timely opportunity to bring the advantages of our proposition to this part of the used vehicle market.
“As a result, we have created an offering for used van buyers that we believe is market leading and will play an important part in Vanbase’s success. It expands to the LCV sector the level of reassurance that customers expect from a used vehicle carrying the RAC brand.”
Gordon Veale, general manager at Carbase, said: “Our entire proposition is based on giving customers a great vehicle with great service and great value. This applies whether they are buying a car or van – and the presence of the RAC name underlines our commitment.
“We have worked very closely together on the creation of the RAC Approved Standard for LCVs for the launch of Vanbase. It is a genuine innovation in the used van sector and should help us to create useful differentiation in a highly competitive part of the market.”
