Need a New Van? Sit Back and Wait

So, instead of all the doom and gloom you read elsewhere, you know we always try to do our bit here at CVI where we can to keep you van drivers smiling. 

And there is potentially some good news on the horizon. We suspect that if you are in the market for a new van, the end of this year could see some absolute bargains to be had.

Reports show that new car and fleet sales were down in April by a massive 97 per cent, the lowest level since 1947 for new vehicle sales in the UK. The Mercedes Sprinter was the best selling fleet vehicle in April, selling an underwhelming 814 vehicles, while the Ford Transit could only muster a disappointing 138 sales. A huge backlog of new vehicles is gathering in car parks and airfields up and down the country as dealerships wait to reopen. The date they are working to is June 1st, when, subject to health and safety legislation, they may once again start to do business. 

But that isn’t the time to go spending your money on a new motor. Analysts are forecasting some pent-up demand and so many dealerships will inevitably be busy with sales over the next few months to accommodate those who simply can’t wait for their new car or van. Slow your roll, there. Because once that rush of sales has happened, and even excluding the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus bringing everything to a grinding halt, there is going to be literal tumbleweed swirling between that backlog of used vehicles. Which means that there are going to be deals to be done, possibly the biggest we’ve seen in living memory, as manufacturers struggle to shift that stock that is just sitting around, depreciating by the day. 

Come September, we think you could be stumbling onto the deal of the decade if you’re in the market for a new van, especially if you’re open to one of the less popular models, such as an Iveco or Nissan. For once, it feels like the customers will be the winners, snapping up bargains as dealers focus on shifting volume sales at lower margins to be able to clear the decks before the new 2021 models are launched.

So sit back, give your current van a little bit of TLC to keep her going for now and wait and see what happens. We think if you’re buying a new van this year, you’ll be in for a treat. And don’t forget, your new van will need new insurance and, as always, even in times of corona, our 3-minute form can help bag you the sort of savings you’ll love, without having to hold out until later in the year.  

In the market for a new van?

It’s that time of year again. The new registration plates are about to be issued next month, and van drivers up and down the country dream wistfully of a brand new, shiny van with all the optional extras a driver could dream of.

And of course, now is the time that the van manufacturers launch their newest models to ensure those who are in the money are ready to show it off from next month with the latest in technology.

This past week, both Mercedes and Volkswagen have showcased their new offerings, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500XD, and the Volkswagen Caddy V5.

The Mercedes is a veritable force to be reckoned with. With almost unlimited variations and added extras, this is a van driver’s dream. A three-litre turbo diesel V6 engine gives as much grunt as the beefiest Scottish van driver could need for getting up those steep hills and glens. A seven-speed automatic gearbox, four-wheel drive and 325 pounds of torque gives it almost off-road abilities. There’s a 10.5” touchscreen, navigation, in-built cruise control in the premium plus package, while the premium package adds lane assist, a rear camera and active brake assist. There are also options for heated mirrors, an electric step at the back, and illuminated front steps. 

Reported to have incredible visibility and more space in the back than a DPD depot, this doesn’t come cheap, but will undoubtedly be the choice of those for whom money is no object and as an investment for a van that’s read to last the distance.

At the other end of the market, for just£21,000 there’s a new VW Caddy in town. The fifth generation of Caddy, this has all the convenience of a hatchback in van form. There are three versions – the Caddy, Life and Style, with more kit as standard on all models. All the Caddys can carry up to two pallets of goofs in the back, but a revamped dashboard with 10” touchscreen makes being behind the wheel a much more comfortable and enjoyable experience. 

Two petrol and one diesel options are available, and there’s even one that can carry additional passengers too. 

If you are in the market for a new van, don’t forget to fill out our free quote form, to know the best possible van insurance prices out there – with the money you save, you may just be able to stretch to one or two added extras on your van spec!

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