Arnold Clark has announced an expanded use of vehicle data across its retail operations with Solera Cap HPI.
The AM100 dealer group said it had moved beyond using vehicle data for individual checks and valuations to embed it in the processes staff use for appraising vehicles, approving purchases and completing customer orders.
The approach is said to combine vehicle identification, valuations, mileage, provenance and condition information, giving staff access to relevant details at the point of decision.
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Among the integrations are Cap vehicle codes linking records across Arnold Clark’s systems, helping to maintain consistent vehicle descriptions, and technical data supporting vehicle configuration and part-exchange valuations in dealerships.
Stock purchasing and pricing decisions are supported by Solera Cap HPI valuation intelligence, and a bespoke Arnold Clark Approved Check uses HPI information for a report covering outstanding finance, stolen vehicle records, insurance write-offs and other potential risks with prospective purchases.
Arnold Clark is also integrating Solera Cap HPI incident history data into its Invent auction platform, meaning buyers can access information about possible previous damage that may not appear on conventional insurance records.
Data checking no longer a separate process
Stuart Thorpe, company secretary at Arnold Clark, said: “The main change is that data is no longer treated as a separate check. Vehicle details, valuation, mileage, provenance and condition information are now built into the appraisal, manager approval and order processes.
“This means our teams have the information they need when decisions are being made, rather than having to consult different systems or carry out separate checks.”
Wendy Swaine, head of strategic relationships at Solera Cap HPI, said: “Arnold Clark is an exemplary retailer and has consistently shown itself to be an innovator in the way it integrates and uses vehicle data throughout its business.
“What stands out is that data isn’t confined to one department or used simply to generate a valuation. It is built into everyday processes, from the first customer enquiry through to appraisal, purchasing, pricing and vehicle preparation.
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“That approach helps staff make informed decisions, improves operational efficiency and gives customers greater confidence in the vehicles they buy.”