Remarketing electric and hybrid vehicles will be the focus of the Vehicle Remarketing Association's (VRA) first meeting of 2019, on January 29.

Sales of new electric and hybrid vehicles increased by more than 20% last year, according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Last month, Cap HPI reported that demand for used electric and hybrid vehicles were increasing, with an average 0.3% rise in residual values at three years/60,000 miles.

Sam Watkins, chair at the VRA, said: “So far, EVs and hybrids have been around in such small numbers and largely contained within franchise dealer networks that they have been seen as relatively marginal within remarketing. 

“However, that situation is changing quite quickly and will accelerate over 2019 and beyond. Our meeting is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the current situation, providing an in-depth understanding.”

At the VRA's meeting, Ian Featherstone from the Energy Saving Trust will present on background drivers for EV and hybrid adoption, vehicle and charging developments, the EST’s engagement with the remarketing sector, and the challenges and opportunities of selling used hybrids and EVs.

Steve Scofield of the Institute of the Motor Industry will then look at the skills needed across the UK to meet changing job roles related to EVs within the remarketing and garage sectors, best practice examples deployed by UK businesses, and Government support regarding zero emissions.

Finally, Jayson Whittingham of Glass’s will provide a detailed update on the current and future position of hybrids and EVs within the used car market, as well as a more general overview of the new and used vehicle sectors in early 2019.

The first VRA meeing will take place at Fleet Auction Group, Coalville.