Pandemic drives even more used-car buyers online

Even before Covid-19, more and more people were buying used cars online. Research by CarNext.com now shows that the pandemic has accelerated that trend: fully one in three potential buyers would now consider buying their used car entirely online.

That acceleration is just one result from a Covid-19 Mobility Study by CarNext.com, LeasePlan's online marketplace for used vehicles. Conducted in August, the study asked 3000 people across six European countries how the pandemic has changed their outlook on mobility. 

Car is king
Two results stand out:

• 81% of those surveyed are now more likely to drive a car than to take public transport.
• Almost 1 in 3 (31%) would now consider buying a used car entirely online. 

“In the New Normal, the private car is king,” says Jan Wouter Kleinjan, Chief Product & Marketing Officer at CarNext.com. In fact, “84% have considered driving rather than flying for their next holiday.” 
And the acceleration towards online used-car buying “proves that it wasn't a temporary trend,” Mr Kleinjan adds.

Very unsafe
Other key findings:

• Attitudes have turned against ride-hailing and ride-sharing, with 60% saying they feel 'somewhat' or 'very' unsafe using such services.
• Drivers would be more willing to buy a car online if home delivery was available (34%); if a 14-day money-back guarantee was offered (50%); or if a full maintenance history and mechanical checks were provided (65%).

This summer, Fleet Europe and the European Car Remarketing Association (CARA) are rolling the Car Remarketing Expert Track, providing unique insight into the challenges and opportunities of the European Remarketing industry. 

Join us on Wednesday 26 August from 11 am (CEST) for a webinar on 'The impact of COVID-19 on Remarketing processes'. Expert speakers will delve into such topics as: remote sales, home delivery,  automated inspection (and self-inspection), compliance and complaints. 

Attendance is free, but registration is required. Click here!