Self-styled 'internet car benefits' company eDefined, which offers low-cost nearly new vehicles to company car employees who have taken cash, claims to have 1m people accessing its services.

The company, launched in August, says it undercuts forecourt prices “by at least 10% by cutting out the dealer middleman”. It offers a range of popular models via the www.edefined.com website, sourced with a known history and service record from rental companies, leasing firms and company car fleets.

Nick Chambers, eDefined business development director, said: “Our proposition means that everyone wins. Fleet managers and vehicle management companies get an alternative distribution channel for ex-fleet cars that maximises residual valuesand improved cashflow.”

eDefined recently signed the National Federation of Post Office Pensioners.

“Not only is the over-55s one of the fast-growing groups of internet users, but retirement is often the time that people invest in significant long-term purchases like cars,” said Mr Chambers.