High-spec used fleet LCVs rocket in value as camper van enthusiasts go for conversions

Thursday, August 1, 2013 - 08:30
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VolkswagenTransporter

FAVOURITE: Volkswagen Transporter

Camper van enthusiasts are helping fleet managers make positive returns on used high-spec vans – by converting them into motor homes.

Online remarketing specialists Autorola are reporting a huge rise in demand for well kitted-out commercial vehicles, sparked by the camper van revolution.

Non VAT-registered enthusiasts, not requiring a van for work, are picking up high-quality LCVs with air conditioning, metallic paint, reversing sensors and a rear tailgate.

Such vehicles, Autorola claim, are prime candidates for camper van conversion, with by far the most popular the Volkswagen Transporter.

Typically, a Transporter T30 LWB with a high specification on a 12-plate is making between £14,000 and £15,000 at trade.

Post conversion, the vehicles will sell at retail for more than £30,000.

Neil Frost, Head of Operations at Autorola, said: “The camper van is making a welcome return and many of our trade buyers are purchasing vans specifically to sell to consumers as a base vehicle for conversion into a camper van.

“Demand for high-spec Transporter vans continues to rise, as do prices, despite the eventual owner not being able to recover the VAT on the van’s purchase.

“As a fleet operator it makes the investment in options such as electric windows, metallic paint and air conditioning worth it as they are pushing up values when it reaches the used market.”

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