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Almost half of people aged 16-35 would buy a used car entirely online according to research by Bristol Street Motors.

While Brexit concerns and changes to the automotive industry, including the Vehicle Excise Duty, have resulted in a drop in new UK car sales, the used car market has remained strong. Similarly, UK ecommerce grew by 18.8% in April and continues to grow.

This data is supported by Bristol Street Motors’ survey, showing that 48% of people aged 16-35, would be happy to purchase a used car online, despite it being a relatively new service.

The study also showed that nine out of 10 people were aware that its possible to buy a used car online. Of those surveyed, 28% said that a trusted provider was the most important factor to consider when buying a car and being able to return the car for a full refund was the second largest factor at 27%.

Other key issues important to customers included the right price and having a local dealership close by for aftermarket services.

In 2017, Vertu Motors, the Group which operates Bristol Street Motors, became the first major UK motor retailer to offer customers the ability to purchase a used vehicle entirely online including part exchanges and finance options, with the launch of Bristol Street Motors Buy Online.

Bristol Street Motors has taken customer feedback into account with the design of its Buy Online platform allowing potential customers to choose from three different paths to purchase a car:

  • Viewing a used car in a dealership then purchasing online
  • Browsing online then purchasing and collecting the vehicle from a dealership
  • Browsing and purchasing online and having the vehicle delivered directly to their address.

It allows customers to choose from more than 3,000 used vehicles and complete their purchase in under five minutes, if they have the funds in place or arrange financial packages if they don’t.

In order to make the process as simple as possible for the customer, the vehicle can be delivered to any home address with a UK mainland postcode. This means the vehicle can be purchased and keys handed over, without the buyer ever visiting a dealership, if they prefer or are not able to.

Phillip Regan, Head of Digital Product Marketing and Ecommerce said: “The data suggests that younger motor retail customers would be prepared to use an entirely online service when buying a car. There are lots of things to take into consideration when making such a large purchase, and it is our job to cater to everyone’s needs and requirements.

“Buy Online offers a bespoke solution, whereby customers can choose the best option for them. They can get the vehicle delivered directly to their door, they can look at a car online and collect it from a dealership or can see a car in a dealership then buy it online.”

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