Usage of apps by those in the trade to buy and sell ex-fleet vehicles has increased by more than 50% this year, according to automotive IT firm Epyx.
 
The firm is basing this figure on the usage of its 1link e-commerce platform, with the firm claiming buying and selling of vehicles is now a 24-hour process thanks to the popularity of smartphones and tablets.
 
Epyx said it is adding to its 1Link network with a new 1link Appraisal app in December that will help provide hassle-free vehicle handovers.
 
The new app will feature a map to guide the buyer towards the location of the vehicle, an inspection tool and an online receipt that is issued to both the buyer and seller.
 
The new app will work with the firm's existing app range.
 
"For buyers, in a market where there remains dealer shortages of some of the most desirable stock, apps allow you to move quickly when the right vehicles appear for sale," said David Goodyear, head of business development at Epyx.
 
"For sellers such as fleets, apps allow you to monitor the current sales situation of your stock in real time," said Goodyear.