'Every little helps' car buyers 04 | 04 | 2011

DEALERSHIP FORECOURTS across the country face a new threat following the launch of the must-anticipated Tesco Cars. The new used car retailing service will sell ex-fleet stock direct to consumers.

Rumours have been rife I the industry over the last few months and the announcement of the site's launch confirms as partnership with the established Carsite.co.uk infrastructure.

It's understood that Tesco had been in discussion with Carsite for 18 months before the official launch. Now Tesco will continue to source cars from ex-fleet and short-cycle rental stock, although with access to 16 million Tesco Clubcard holders, there is potential for significant growth over sales achieved to date by Carsite (less than 10,000 since its launch in 2006).

Tesco Cars will advertise up to 3000 cars every week with fresh stock added to the website daily, offering a range of models between six months and three years old.

Vehicles are sold as ‘buy it now’ – available immediately – or ‘pre-order’ – about to be returned to the vendor by the current user and typically available a month after the point of reservation.

Customers reserve their chosen car with a £99 handling fee, fully refundable if they choose not to proceed with the purchase.

Buyers will then be allotted their own, named adviser, who can help answer questions and make sure the buyer is happy with their new purchase. Tesco Cars can deliver the vehicle direct to the new owner’s home for a fixed transport charge of £149 to anywhere in mainland UK.

Cars will be sold with a no-quibble seven-day money-back guarantee, and for additional peace of mind, HPI checked and a month's warranty.

A range of Tesco financial services including vehicle insurance will be offered at the point of sale and as buyers will receive 2000 Clubcard points for each car purchase.

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Jim McGill