Manheim Auctions says strong sales prices at its LCV auctions indicate growing demand among franchised dealers for highly specified vans.

At a recent Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle sale, restricted to its franchised dealers, vans with metallic paint, air-con, sat-nav, parking sensors and eletric windows, mirrors and seats were in very strong demand.

Alex Wright, CV sales director at Manheim, said such vehicles are sought by dealers to cater for the self-employed customer, who wants a used van with "kerb appeal" and flexibility of use.

James Davis, group CV manager, said the auction firm has seen growing use by dealers of its CV Live online auction system, which saves them the need to actually attend an auction.

On average 21 extra buyers have logged on for every CV sale held this year.