Dealers looking to maximise the value of low-end part exchanges will soon be able to take advantage of a new scheme launched by one of the UK's leading salvage companies.

Universal Salvage is piloting a programme with two undisclosed AM100-listed dealer groups and if successful, will make it available to all automotive retailers.

When the scheme is fully operational, the Bedfordshire-based firm says it will collect a vehicle from any point in the UK and prepare it for disposal, which includes running HPI checks.

Most of the vehicles will go through the company's eight Universal Vehicle Services auction houses. Although unwilling to report specific figures achieved in the pilot scheme, Universal says typical auction prices are between £1,500 and £2,500.