Citroen UK has selected Surrey-based internet services provider 2nd Byte to launch and manage branded websites for the 240-strong dealer network, as well as the Citroen website (www.citroen.co.uk), incorporating a used vehicle locator.

The Citroen contract follows shortly after 2nd Byte's appointment by Toyota Financial Services to provide a financial quotation system.

2nd Byte has also revealed it is set to announce a number of other partnerships during the first quarter of 2001.

Guy Thomas, 2nd Byte's client services director, said: “Every Citroen dealer will be offered a fully personalised internet presence but with consistent branding, online marketing material and customer information packages running throughout the entire service.

“The used car locator will plug into Citroen's existing site and enable potential customers to conduct detailed searches of all Hallmark used cars held within the dealer network on the Citroen website and all vehicles on individual dealer sites.”

John Sawbridge, Citroen new media manager, said: “2nd Byte's knowledge of the dealer marketplace and vision of how to achieve brand consistency was particularly impressive. It also presented a strong case for increasing business opportunities on-line with our existing customers.”