eBay has launched a new service which allows bidders and sellers to keep track of their transactions and amend bids via mobile phones.

Designed, built and hosted by technology provider Volantis, the new service alerts buyers via SMS and GPRS technology then allows them to increase their bid even during the final seconds of an auction.

eBay Motors believes the new service will prove particularly popular among car buyers.

“eBay Anywhere can be used by buyers and sellers of any item, but we believe it will be especially useful for car buyers who don’t want to miss a particular car or potential bargain. It’s secure and enhances the user experience,” says Clare Gilmartin, director of eBay Motors.

eBay Motors buyers and sellers will be given real time, remote access to their bidding and selling processes, meaning users no longer have to be by their PC to ensure they are not outbid in any auctions. If for example, a buyer receives an outbid SMS alert, they have the opportunity to increase their own bid. The outbid SMS message contains a mobile web link that clicks through to a WAP page. The buyer can then enter a new bid in a secure, real time environment.

In 2003, more than 70,000 vehicles were sold through ebaymotors.co.uk and a car now sells on eBay every two minutes.