Manheim launches mobile auction unit

Manheim has unveiled its new mobile auction unit at the CV Show this week.

This system enables vendors to stage live auction events wherever and whenever suits them best. Manheim delivers the mobile auction unit to the chosen venue and, along with its team of experts, joins physical and online buyers to stage an auction event.

The vehicle provides busy vendors with more flexibility on the location of the sale, as well as the best day of the week to hold the auction. Manheim believes this more flexible approach to CV auctions will attract new and existing physical and online buyers into a unique buying arena. 

Manheim’s mobile auction unit uses software and hardware to harness both 3G and 4G signals from a number of different data providers. This enables Manheim to take its Simulcast service, and auctioneer, out on the open road and onto the vendors’ premises to deliver a live auction event in front of a physical and online audience.

Utilising a VW Amarok Ultimate pick-up, the mobile auction unit will sport a distinctive livery, applied for Manheim by Sign Language.

C Walton has fabricated a unique load bay cover, plus installation of waterproof speaker system, TV screen and webcam. This permits the auctioneer to utilise the pick-up body as a mobile rostrum; giving physical and online buyers the ability to simultaneously join a remote off-site auction event.

James Davis, head of commercial vehicles at Manheim, said: “I am really excited to see the launch of this all-new Manheim service. It brings with it a totally new dynamic to the CV auction world. Online technology is crucial in our daily lives as it engages an ever growing number of online buyers. This trend will only increase over the coming years. Buyers are having to adapt to new and innovative online products and services in order to secure premium stock from prime vendors.

“Now Manheim has the ability and flexibility to deliver bespoke auction events in an operator’s premises, de-fleet centre or storage compound. We can sell anything and everything, be they cars, vans, trucks, trailers or plant equipment. Make no mistake - this mobile auction unit, underpinned by Manheim’s existing market-making team and transparent processes, will maximise buyer engagement to deliver industry-leading auction events and results. This is yet another example of how Manheim is investing in the future by providing innovative routes to market for vendors and buyers alike.”