Motoring News

Manufacturers and dealers looking for a sales boost may wish to follow in the footsteps of Fiat, after an overhaul of its remarketing strategy proved highly successful.

Upon the arrival of Simon Wheeler to the company last year, Fiat was struggling with high stock levels.

But the FGAUK’s used vehicle remarketing manager has helped to change the direction of the company.

The change in strategy proved a major success last year as Fiat witnessed a 42 per cent increase in used car wholesales to dealers and trade buyers.

Also, a fourfold increase was registered in dealers buying vehicles online.

Mr Wheeler explained: "Following a complete overhaul of our used car strategy we now find ourselves with stock levels that allow us to drive the used market to the benefit of our dealers and customers.

"Some cars, such as Grande Punto, are now in very short supply which has, in turn, pushed up residual values in the used car guides."

Fiat also acknowledges that the problems that have affected the motoring industry over the past months have helped to improve its position, as there has been a demand for less expensive models.

With the demand for vehicles priced under the £8,000 umbrella soaring over the current months, Fiat has a host of vehicles to put in the direction of prospective buyers.

Alongside the success of the Grande Punto, Fiat also has other well-priced vehicles including the 500, Panda and Bravo, all of which offer low emissions and are in a low road tax bracket.