The brand does not have a new van launch that coincides with the NEC event and Robson said it would instead focus on promoting its range through internet-based videos, which, he claimed, were particularly effective in demonstrating the capabilities of its ATV (all terrain vehicle) Bipper, Partner and Expert models.
Peugeot has targeted growth of 30% for its ATV derivatives this year, having admitted they got off to a slow start in the market following their introduction 18 months ago.
Robson said the enhanced grip control vans, which have a £600 mark-up over standard models, were becoming increasingly popular in Scotland with local councils, the Forestry Commission and in transporting medical supplies to inaccessible areas.
He said further growth would be achieved through the provision of demonstrator models to dealerships where sales staff were trained to promote the vans.
The brand has also run a six-month deal offering ATV models through Peugeot Contract Hire at the same rates as standard versions and Robson added that the persistently wintery weather had also helped business.
Unlike 4×4 vehicles, he claimed ATV technology has no impact on payload capacity, load space or fuel consumption.
“The ATV Partner is the biggest seller and where we see growth,” Robson said.
Peugeot’s Partner Electric will be available from May. Robson said the van, with a claimed maximum range of 105 miles, would sell for less than £17,000 once Government grants were taken into account.
He said the Partner Electric featured a fast-charge capability enabling it to be charged to 80% capacity in 30 minutes and claimed OLEV (the Office for Low Emission Vehicles) had moved to improve the charging infrastructure by offering a 50% subsidy to firm’s investing in a fast-charge facility – cutting the cost to £5000.
