Manheim’s Mobile Auction Unit has sold more than £1 million worth of vans since its launch at the Commercial Vehicle show last year.

The unit uses mobile technology to create a physical and online auction environment in any location and has helped to sell almost every type of commercial vehicle, from car-derived vans to an agricultural tractor.

Based on a Volkswagen Amarok Ultimate 4x4 double-cab pick-up, it features a unique rostrum structure in the load bay, a waterproof public address system, TV screen and webcam. Bidders can attend in person or join in via Manheim’s Simulcast online bidding system.

The mobile unit means that vendors can avoid the potential logistical challenges and associated costs of transporting stock. There is also a benefit of reduced days in stock, which can be weeks or months in the case of specialist assets that are typically sold infrequently at physical auctions.

Manheim hosted the UK’s first offsite outdoor vehicle auction for Citroen on the banks of the River Thames. Hitachi Capital also utilized the mobile unit at their Trowbridge HQ to sell a selection of premium vehicles.

So far, more than 500 buyers have remotely joined mobile commercial vehicle auctions. Manheim believes the growth in online commercial vehicle sales is increasing, with their online sales channels responsible for 49% of all vehicles sold in February 2016.

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