The majority of fleets have ignored new models and choose to run second-hand cars and vans to save money and benefit from the improved reliability of nearly new models.
More than half of UK fleets (52%) are operating second hand cars and vans, and a further 27% believe they will do so in the next three years, according to new research.
The 2025 Arval Mobility Observatory Barometer also shows used vehicles are most often used for pool fleet purposes and their acquisition is more common among smaller operators.
John Peters, Head of Arval Mobility Observatory in the UK, said, “Our experience is that new car and van shortages during the recession caused more companies to look at used vehicle options and many have found it works for them as part of their operating fleet mix.
“This trend is something largely made possible by the high quality and resistance to wear of modern vehicle designs. Cars and vans today remain safe, financially viable to operate, and in good condition for much longer than in the past.”
Smaller companies are more likely to adopt second hand cars and vans, with 54% already using them and 29% planning future implementation, compared to medium sized companies at 47% and 28%, and larger companies at 53% and 19%.
John added,: “Used vehicles tend to fit more easily into smaller business needs. If a large company wants to order 50 units of the same model at a year old, it’s unlikely the used market will be able to meet their needs but, if a small company requires three units, it’s quite likely they can find what they want.”
The research also asked about the uses for which fleets are buying used cars and vans, with responses of 79% as pool vehicles, 74% for job need, and 53% for benefit drivers.
John said: “This suggests that fleets tend to identify clear roles for used vehicles, with a preference for uses where a car is an essential transport tool, rather than part of a benefit package. A used car is a utility vehicle in most cases.”
He pointed out that more fleets in the UK were currently buying used vehicles compared to a European average and global average of 39%
“Again, this might be an effect of pandemic production shortages, when availability of right-hand drive vehicles tended to be worse globally, meaning those markets had to take a more improvisational approach to car and van acquisition.”
