Reg Vardy has launched its website, regvardy.com, created to offer customers "a quick and simple way to search for the vehicle and the finance deal of their choice".

Users can choose to search among a stock of new - and over 10,000 used - vehicles available from all 82 Reg Vardy dealerships by price band, manufacturer, model or special offer type. The site has also pictures and specification details for each vehicle.

Once a customer has made their choice they can then choose whether they want to be contacted by fax, telephone or email. The dealership is then able to arrange demonstrations, part exchange valuations, vehicle quotations and delivery anywhere in the country.

Also available is Vardydrive, providing special deals on contract hire rental agreements to private and business drivers, able to benefit from the company's "extensive purchasing power with manufacturers measing lower monthly rentals".

Also VAT registered companies can reclaim all or 50% of the VAT charged on the rental, depending on whether the vehicle is exclusively or partially used for business.

Reg Vardy chairman Peter Vardy said: "The internet is a powerful and exciting new channel to market and gives us the potential to reach many new customers.

"Our strategy is to ensure all our customers are made aware of the group's special offers, financial products and aftersales services through all media. "The internet provides customers with a more flexible approach to choosing and buying a car." Mr Vardy revealed in June (AM 236) that his company was spending more than £1 million on the website and a call centre as part of a programme to build a powerful national brand.

Mr Vardy warned his peers then that only leading AM100 groups - not dotcom entrants and manufacturers - could provide adequate customer service.

The Reg Vardy website can be viewed at www.regvardy.com