ON THE FORECOURT
Latest news from the dealers
Volkswagen expands its list of accredited van converters, while dealerships are still very much on the hunt for pre-owned stock
VW updates Motorhome Qualification Scheme
Volkswagen UK has added another name to the growing list of converters joining its Motorhome Qualification Scheme.
Announced earlier this year to ensure buyers know what they’re getting when they purchase a campervan converted by a third party using a VW base vehicle, the list’s early sign-ups include Hillside Leisure, Jerba and Rolling Homes.
Now CJL Leisure Vehicles has been accepted onto the list, at the same time announcing it has joined the NCC. Volkswagen confirms other converters are in the pipeline to join its scheme.
The company, based in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, offers campervans on Volkswagen’s Transporter and Caddy, as well as Ford’s Transit. It was founded in 2016 by Cye Hayes, formerly head of design and development at Bailey.
CJL Leisure Vehicles is certainly not afraid to do things differently. Pictured (1) is its Adventure Competition model, which sleeps four and has a five-bike wetroom at the rear, where you can store cycles and kit safely out of sight. Find out more at www.cjlleisure.co.uk.
Dealers hunt for stock as shortage continues
Motorhome dealers are still struggling to source vehicles to keep up with the boom in demand for pre-owned ’vans of all types. But there is light at the end of the tunnel, especially as larger retailers are flexing their financial muscle.
As one tells me: “We want stock like everyone else, but the good news is that we have heaps on forward order and unlike other dealers, have stuff in the pipeline. Customers must register their interest and get in quick to avoid disappointment as it’s being snapped up very fast! Even though we don’t have much stock on the ground, we certainly have lots in the order book.”
Or this, from another dealership: “We still have a good turnover of stock. The reason? We’re buying at high prices.” The downside, of course, is that those prices are being passed on.
Abacus does the motorhome sales numbers
Backed by a history of some 30 years of offering motorhomes for hire, Hampshire-based Abacus has unveiled a new set-up solely for the retail of new and pre-owned ’vans.
The firm’s 2.5-acre site includes both showroom and outdoor display areas. It has also taken on the franchise for new motorhomes from Adria.
Managing director Dave Wolfenden says:
“By continually investing in our operating sites, technology and quality staff, we are confident that customers’ sales or hire experience with us will be rewarding.”
He adds: “The new site also includes an indoor drive-through collection and drop-off facility for our 55 rental motorhomes – an industry first.”
The company is a member of the national Approved Workshop Scheme. As well as Adria, Abacus has Appointed Service Centre status with both Bailey and Swift.
Abacus Motorhomes can be found at Hawker Siddeley Way, Andover Business Park, Andover, Hampshire SP11 8BF. Contact the firm on 01264
319 990 or visit www.abacusmotorhomes.co.uk.