Motortrade IT firm Dragon 2000 has converted “a good number” of its 400-500 dealership management system users to its business-to-business internet stock locator.

WebTrader, which went live last month, allows dealers to advertise and locate stock in a secure online trading environment. plugging directly into Dragon's management system, meaning no additional investment is required for new equipment.

Dealers can use WebTrader free of charge for a limited period, but as it becomes established they will be charged £25 a month for an unrestricted number of transactions. Mark Cooper, Dragon 2000 managing director, described WebTrader as a “medium” to assist dealers' used car sales.

Dragon 2000 has no involvement in the sales process. “It helps customers in two areas. Firstly, it is a direct way to tracking down exactly what you want to buy. It is possible to search for and submit exact vehicle specifications,” he said. “A second advantage has got to be cost. To encourage customers it is free at the moment and unlike rival services we won't be charging commission on transactions.”

WebTrader presently contains around 200 cars, with no restrictions on type or age of vehicle.