NAMA Market Update – November 2025: UK Wholesale Vehicle Market Holds Firm Ahead of Year-End

“November has been a solid month across the wholesale sector, with good buyer attendance and robust activity for well-presented stock,” said Paul Hill, spokesperson for the National Association of Motor Auctions (NAMA), commenting on the November 2025 Market Update. “While there has been a slight seasonal easing, the market remains resilient, and members are reporting positive outcomes across cars, LCVs, and electric vehicles.”

Market Overview
Wholesale activity in November has remained broadly steady. Buyers are more selective than earlier in the year, reflecting typical year-end dynamics, but conversion rates continue to hold up well. Auction attendance remains strong, with competitive bidding for retail-ready vehicles.

Average values have eased slightly across different age bands: three-year/60,000-mile cars –1.6%, one-year/10,000-mile cars –1.5%, and five-year/80,000-mile cars –1.6%.

Retail Trends
Retail demand remains broadly stable, with strong interest in attractively priced vehicles. Sub-£20,000 electric vehicles continue to perform particularly well, supported by improved charging infrastructure and perceived value. EVs have declined slightly by 0.8% in values but remain the best-performing fuel type year-to-date. Members highlight that some late-plate and pre-registered stock may affect used car values in specific segments, though overall retail sentiment remains healthy.

Light Commercial Vehicles
LCVs continue to perform strongly, with members reporting strong conversion rates. Chassis cab derivatives remain in high demand due to limited availability, while higher-mileage vans have seen minor adjustments.

Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles are performing strongly, particularly three- to five-year-old models. While younger EVs under 12 months are affected by pre-registration and new car incentives, they continue to sell very well in the sub-£20,000 segment. Members report that EVs are still capturing strong consumer interest, with fast turnaround on well-priced vehicles and continued positive demand trends.

Members expect that core three- to five-year-old retail stock will remain strong into 2026. Overall, the year has been relatively strong, and members remain confident in the resilience of the market.

Paul Hill concluded:
“November has demonstrated the sector’s resilience. Buyer engagement remains strong, well-presented stock continues to attract competitive interest, and overall conditions are stable as we move toward the end of the year. While seasonal pressures and selective buying are evident, the market has held up well, providing confidence as we head into 2026.”