The average price of a de-fleeted car at Manheim’s auctions increased by £1,056 in 2012.

Data from Manheim’s monthly Market Analysis shows that in December, the average price was £6,617 – 19% higher than the December 2011 figure of £5,561.

Mike Pilkington, chief strategy officer at Manheim, said: “The past 12 months have been good for leasing companies looking to gain best value for their de-fleet stock.

“It’s largely been a seller’s market and residual values have been strong.

“However, looking ahead to 2013 the big challenges will centre around supply versus demand.

“While all the indicators point to another good year for vendors in 2013, those leasing companies and manufacturers which can meet supply demands will achieve the best values for vehicles.”

Manheim said the December 2012 average value was an increase of more than 3% over November.

It said while this rise was driven largely by a fall in the age and mileage of vehicles at auction, the overall trend for wholesale prices of ex-fleet cars looks set to continue into 2013, as the market copes with the shortage of good-quality, retail-ready vehicles.

Looking at the performance of vehicle segments in more detail, December saw selling prices rise in seven of the 10 niches covered in the report.

Most significantly, 4x4s rose in value by 15.5% (or £1,980), while mini-MPV models increased by 14.1% (or £593).

However, superminis fell by £385 or 8.8% which reflected an increase of five months in average age and 1,356 miles compared to November.

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