A new mobility provider backed by Cambria Automobiles and run by former Citroen managing director Karl Howkins is promising an innovative leasing model for businesses and consumers.

SOGO will provide ultra-flexible service with leases available from one month to four years and is aiming to build a fleet of around 5,000 vehicles in its first year of trading, a statement revealed today (November 17).

The digital-led service claims to give customers the ability to order a vehicle in a matter of minutes, with team members at a customer service centre in Milton Keynes on hand to ensure transactions supported over the phone, if required.

SOGO, which is poised for an official launch in the coming weeks, said that its customers will also be able to benefit from a subscription model that includes comprehensive insurance, maintenance, breakdown cover and industry-leading flexibility.

Howkins said: “The leasing market continues to grow apace and accounted for over two million vehicles last year.

“Our research shows that customers are demanding increasingly flexible leases and, of course, value.

“We believe our business model combines fantastic service and cutting-edge technology to deliver an industry-leading service for small businesses and the iPhone generation alike.”

SOGO will operate nationally with a network of logistics hubs.

Its statement said that the business “owns and manages its supply chain”, adding that it is currently “in negotiations with a number of OEMs to build stock ahead of launch”.

Vehicles will be remarketed through SOGO sponsored channels, it said.

Howkins joined the CD Auctions business as managing director of auctions within parent company SMH back in July, around six months after leaving his post at PSA Group-owned Citroen.

He departed the business earlier this month.