New figures from the Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer reveal that The Netherlands has one of the oldest car fleets in Europe. But is that bad news? Because does old also mean less sustainable?
Many of the cars on Dutch roads are used cars and come from the commercial market. In this article, Arnoud Lohmeijer, Manager Remarketing & Rental at ALD Automotive, explains more about the used car market.
"Second-hand lease cars are mostly new used cars. In fact, lease cars are rarely written off at the end of a lease contract. A car that is only four years old still has a whole life ahead of it. From that premise, used car leasing was born", Arnoud explains.
What are the major advantages of driving used lease cars?
"Occasion lease cars are not only new cars that meet the latest environmental requirements, they are also well-maintained. Our lease cars are always maintained according to factory specifications and their entire history is recorded. In addition, the mileage is guaranteed and the cars are often generously equipped. Nowadays, cars are of higher quality and much more fuel-efficient, making them more durable and better for the environment.
There are also many practical advantages. "Leasing or buying a used car is obviously cheaper than getting a new car. The car is often directly available and you don't have to wait months, or even over a year, for your car. This is currently often the case with new cars. In the case of a lease car, you have a clear understanding of the cost - a fixed monthly rate - which includes devaluation, repairs, road tax, insurance, breakdown assistance and replacement transport. Maintenance is also included in a lease contract, so in case of an unexpected defect, you won't be surprised by extra costs".
What are your expectations from the used car market in the coming years?
“The market is becoming much more sustainable. Cars still running on regular fuel are becoming more sustainable and there are more hybrid and electric cars entering the used car market. Also, due to the lack of semiconductors and other parts, far fewer new cars have been delivered in the past two years, which means demand and prices for used cars have gone up considerably. The supply of new vehicles is expected to take off only slowly and leasing companies will increasingly offer used cars for lease. For the time being, the supply of used cars will remain low and prices, even if supply increases, will not start dropping any time soon".
What should you pay attention to when buying or leasing a used car?
"It is important to look at the service history and mileage on a used car. Is the service history available and transparant, is the mileage correct and is a NAP report available? Then have it recorded in the purchase agreement. That way, there will never be any unpleasant surprises. It is also important that you choose a car that suits you. What kind of fuel suits your planned mileage? And what about the warranty? At ALD Automotive, warranty on leasing a used car is always guaranteed. In addition, our rules and conditions comply with the Keurmerk Private Lease, protecting you as a consumer from excessive financial charges and providing security in case of complaints.
What are currently the best used car deals?
"At the moment, the Kia Picanto is popular in the used car lease. Of course there are many more (changing) offers for both used and new cars.
Check our website the best used car deals!"