Following a fall in the price of diesel below that of petrol in late July, vehicle remarketer Manheim found that in August the increase in average values of used diesel cars was more than £200 higher than the rise in average values of petrol cars.
Manheim said that the average values of petrol cars in the used market rose by 1.1% (£37.97) in August compared to the first six months of the year, while the values of used diesel cars were up by 3.1% (£242.44).
Michael Buxton, chief executive officer of Manheim UK, said: "Although there are many variables around prices changes, including volume mix, age and mileage, it appears that the fuel price drop – the first time diesel has been cheaper than petrol since 2001 – may have already had an impact in the used car market.
"The average diesel car sold by Manheim was two months younger than in the previous month, with the average petrol car only being one month younger. However, the volume mix swung 0.6% towards diesel cars in August, which may have negated any residual value benefit from vehicle age.
"As we enter the new 65-plate registration period, it will be interesting to see whether the fuel price difference has any impact on new vehicle registrations, and whether we continue to see this trend reflected in the used vehicle market."
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalData