Values averaged £8,400 at BCA in January 2023, up by £135 or 1.6% compared to December 2022, as buyer appetite exceeded expectations, driven by the strong results widely reported across the retail sector. Sold volumes increased significantly, month-on-month and performance against guide price lifted.
BCA customers anecdotally reported healthy retail demand for both used cars and LCVs in January and this was reflected in the wholesale sector. Supply was finely balanced with the increasing demand, seeing values lift as the month progressed. The strength seen in the budget sector pre-Christmas spread upwards throughout the month and by the close of the month, most sectors were seeing positive activity.
The used EV market remained volatile - however the uplift in general demand, combined with a significant pricing correction moving into January, started to make some vehicles look more attractive. However, keeping in touch with live pricing intelligence in this area remains crucial.
BCA UK COO Stuart Pearson commented "Used car values saw an uplift in January 2023, with improved demand and competitive bidding as the motor industry started New Year trading with a good deal of seasonal confidence. Consumer demand was reported as being better than expected by most and it is fair to say that after the challenges of the last quarter, the unexpected lift to the January market was very welcome."
He added "Most sectors strengthened as the month progressed, however EV continues to be volatile as buyers and sellers grapple with finding realistic values for some models that are returning in more significant volumes. It therefore remains vital that the latest pricing intelligence is utilised to support decisions in this area."
"Meanwhile, economic reports seem slightly more positive in recent weeks, with talk of inflation starting to fall and energy costs stabilising later in 2023, along with the SMMT continuing to report growth in the UK new car market – while also noting that volumes remain well behind pre-pandemic levels. Whilst new cars are becoming more readily available, there is every expectation that used car values will remain resilient for the next few months."