COX Automotive brands, Autotrader and Dealer Solutions, are reporting increased activity across their businesses in what could be early signs of consumers returning to the new and used vehicle markets.

Michael Sommerton, CEO of Dealer Solutions said in a statement that early May showed a marked increase compared to April activity.

“Across the website platforms we manage for large numbers of dealers, unique visitors were up 27 per cent per day which translated into 20 per cent more leads than at the same time last month.

“Across all the key consumer metrics we track, all leads were up considerably and leads for specific dealer inventory were up almost 30 per cent.

“While this analysis is based on a limited period of time, it shows consumers are starting to return to the market, at least in the research and comparison stage of their shopping journey.”

Mr Sommerton’s sentiments were also shared by Shaun Cornelius, CEO of Cox Automotive’s Media businesses.

Mr Cornelius said: “While we saw editorial sessions drop on our CarsGuide website at the height of the COVID-19 crisis, in early May they have moved to be 15 per cent higher than prior levels.

“Consumers definitely put their purchase plans on hold with almost 40 per cent less traffic to vehicle listings at the lowest point, but interest has returned and dealer leads are actually 29 per cent ahead of prior levels.

“We can also see that dealers are keen to get back to the business of selling, with Autotrader having more dealer accounts than before the restrictions came into full force,” Mr Sommerton said.

Both Dealer Solutions and Autotrader had a range of discounted and free offerings in April and May to support dealer customers and are focused on helping dealers ramp back up to meet pent up consumer demand.

By John Mellor