Cox Automotive has signed a two-year partnership with digital startup Driver1, providing the firm with a supply of cars and services.
Driver1 is an online business that offers customers a range of flexible plans on vehicles, starting from £96 per month. Vehicles are offered as part of an inclusive package that covers warranty, breakdown, MOT and road tax.
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As part of the deal, Driver1 will purchase more than 1,200 from Cox Automotive, as well as utilising Manheim’s seller advance valuation services, offering trade-in cars through Manheim’s auction centre network.
Driver1 will also benefit from storage, smart repair and vehicle refurbishment from Manheim, with delivery and handover services also included. Stock funding will be provided through NextGear Capital.
“We’re excited to partner with Cox Automotive for our full wholesale to retail process,” said Tim Hammond, chief executive of Driver1. “Ours is the first product of its kind on the market, and we know that high quality of service at every stage is imperative to deliver on the customer experience we expect to offer through Driver1.”
Gerry Whittington, head of central sales at Cox Automotive, added: “This is an exciting new partnership that really demonstrates how important it is for Cox Automotive to offer products and services across the full remarketing process.”
“Driver1 offers many firsts for the online car industry, offering younger drivers an all-inclusive monthly subscription model. We look forward to delivering a seamless end-to-end service, and are confident that this partnership will grow as the Driver1 business develops.”
Manheim, which forms part of Cox Automotive, recently renewed its partnership with the Hendy Group, enabling 32,000 cars and LCVs to pass through its lanes over the next four years.
James Leese, the Manheim group sales director, said: “We are thrilled to have signed this new contract, which marks the renewal of a successful 17 year partnership.
“Together, we’ve developed a highly effective auction programme, with strong buyer interest for Hendy Group cars at our Manheim Bristol site, and commercial vehicles in Manheim Colchester.”
