Auto-Online, the high-profile internet-based b2b used car remarketing service, has been saved from administrative receivership by founders Douglas and Karen Rotberg.

The Rotbergs, who sold their controlling stake in March 2000, blamed the collapse last December on the management team for steering the company away from its original vision and focus. They intend to relaunch Auto-Online later this year.

“By regaining control of the company, Douglas and I have taken the first step in a complete reorganisation of the service,” says Karen Rotberg.

The business will focus on establishing relationships with manufacturers and fleets, offering them an internet-based, branded remarketing route to dealers. A number of key automotive companies will be given the opportunity to trial the system, which integrates into fleet and dealer management systems, prior to relaunch.

This will be followed by a full marketing push to the 2000 dealers that were signed up to the original business. “Auto-Online will provide unique benefits and deliver new trade and retail sales channels,” say the new owners in a statement to AM-online.