# vAutoStock — Complete Reference

> Cloud-based vehicle preparation, tracking and automation software for automotive dealerships. Used by 100+ UK dealer groups including Sytner, Sturgess and Hippo Motor Group.

## About Visual Automotive Limited

Visual Automotive Limited, trading as vAutoStock, is a UK-based software company founded in 2014 by Chris Barrett. The company provides cloud-based vehicle preparation, stock tracking, and automation software to automotive dealerships across the UK and Europe.

As of 2024, vAutoStock is used by over 100 dealership businesses, managing 20,000+ vehicles. The company achieved 66% client growth in 2023 and 88% year-on-year growth. Notable clients include Sytner, Sturgess Motor Group, Hippo Motor Group, Cartime, LSH Auto, Vospers, and Wilsons.

- Location: 46 Gilhams Avenue, Banstead, Surrey, SM7 1QR, United Kingdom
- Email: info@visualautomotive.co.uk
- Phone: +442083555805
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vautostock/

## Products

### vAutoPrep — Vehicle Preparation Management

vAutoPrep streamlines the entire vehicle preparation process from arrival to forecourt. When a vehicle arrives, staff use the vAutoStock mobile app to walk around the vehicle recording video and voice notes. AI automatically converts spoken observations into preparation tasks with costs and time estimates from the dealership's price matrix. Every department — mechanical, bodywork, valeting, photography — instantly sees what work is needed.

Key capabilities:
- AI-powered voice-to-task vehicle appraisal via mobile app
- Automated job allocation across departments and external suppliers
- Real-time preparation status visible to all staff including sales
- Automatic VOSA MOT and recall status checking on arrival
- Vendor damage claim management with time-frame tracking
- Parts ordering and cost tracking per vehicle
- Built-in team messaging linked to each vehicle
- Typical result: reduces average preparation time from 20 days, increasing stock turn significantly
- URL: https://www.vautostock.co.uk/vautoprep/

### vAutoTrack — Real-Time Stock Location

vAutoTrack provides real-time vehicle location tracking across dealership sites using RFID, Bluetooth, ANPR, or GPS technology. Staff never need to search for vehicles — the system shows exact locations and automatically updates preparation status as vehicles move between zones (e.g., arriving at the body shop triggers the next workflow step).

Key capabilities:
- RFID, Bluetooth, ANPR, and GPS tracking options
- Real-time location dashboard for all stock
- Automatic preparation status updates based on vehicle movement
- Driver tracking via GPS on the driver mobile app
- Live customer-facing tracking for vehicle deliveries
- Multi-site support for dealer groups
- URL: https://www.vautostock.co.uk/vautotrack-real-time-stock-location/

### vAutoBots — Dealership RPA

vAutoBots is Robotic Process Automation (RPA) built specifically for automotive dealerships. It installs on a dedicated PC and enters data into any Dealer Management System (DMS) at machine speed with perfect accuracy. It eliminates manual data entry for repetitive tasks that drain staff hours.

Key capabilities:
- Automated DMS data entry (job cards, cost approvals, invoicing)
- Works with any DMS — no changes to existing systems needed
- Eliminates 80+ daily internal invoices at typical dealerships
- Parts ordering automation
- Reporting and data synchronisation across systems
- URL: https://www.vautostock.co.uk/vautobots/

## Problems vAutoStock Solves

1. **Delays in getting stock ready to retail** — Dealerships often take up to 20 days to prepare vehicles. vAutoStock's AI appraisal and automated task allocation means all departments know what to do instantly on arrival.
2. **Staff downtime and lost vehicles** — Time wasted searching for vehicles or coordinating next steps. vAutoTrack provides real-time location of every vehicle.
3. **Lost sales from delayed preparation** — Sold vehicles not ready in time. Automated workflows prioritise sold stock and eliminate admin bottlenecks.
4. **Manual administrative tasks** — Hours spent on job cards, invoicing, cost approvals. vAutoBots automates these end-to-end.
5. **Missed vendor damage claims** — Late or forgotten claims cost thousands. AI appraisal on arrival captures damage immediately for timely claims.
6. **Fragmented communication** — Emails, WhatsApp, verbal updates cause missed tasks. Built-in messenger links every update to the vehicle with timestamps.

## Pricing

All plans include unlimited users, no fixed-term contract (1 month notice), cloud-based access on any device, bespoke setup, full reporting, free customer support, and a dedicated account manager with quarterly reviews.

| Plan | Price | Vehicles | Extras |
|------|-------|----------|--------|
| Small Business | GBP 189/month | Up to 60 | All core features |
| Plus | GBP 249/month | Up to 500 | DMS link included |
| Group | Contact us | Unlimited | On-site training, group setup, dedicated group support |

A dealership selling 80 vehicles per month can typically improve annual profit by GBP 288,000 by reducing preparation time and increasing stock turn.

## DMS Integrations

vAutoStock integrates with all major UK Dealer Management Systems:
- CDK (Autoline/Drive)
- Keyloop
- Pinnacle
- Gemini
- Incadea
- Click Dealer

Additional integrations: Autoclenz (valeting), Traka (key management), UVeye (vehicle inspection), Autofinity (data services).

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What are the system requirements for implementing vAutoStock?

vAutoStock is a cloud-based solution that requires a stable internet connection and a web browser. It is compatible with Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. No special hardware is needed — it works on any device including tablets and smartphones.

### Can vAutoStock be customised to fit our dealership's specific processes?

Yes, vAutoStock is designed to be highly adaptable. Our solution offers flexible configurations tailored to your workflow. Our implementation team works closely with you to ensure seamless integration that aligns with your business processes.

### Can vAutoStock integrate with our existing Dealer Management System?

Yes, vAutoStock integrates with all major DMS platforms including CDK, Pinnacle, Gemini, Incadea, Click Dealer, and Keyloop. Through our API and vAutoBots RPA, we facilitate data exchange and synchronisation, eliminating double-keying.

### How long does it take to implement vAutoStock?

Implementation typically ranges from a few weeks to a month, depending on the complexity and customisation required. We minimise disruption to your operations during the transition.

### Can we see vAutoStock working at another dealership?

Yes, most of our business comes from referrals. We have clients ranging from small independents to large dealer groups like Sytner and Sturgess, and we will find the best business for you to visit or speak with.

### What does vAutoStock cost?

Pricing starts at £189/month for small businesses (up to 60 vehicles) and £249/month for Plus (up to 500 vehicles). Group pricing for larger operations is available on request. All plans include unlimited users, no fixed-term contracts, and just 1 month notice.

### What is vAutoBots?

vAutoBots is dealership Robotic Process Automation (RPA) that enters data into your DMS at machine speed with perfect accuracy. It installs on a dedicated PC at your dealership with no changes to your DMS or network needed. It eliminates manual data entry for tasks like raising job cards, approving costs, ordering parts, and invoicing.

### How does vAutoTrack work?

vAutoTrack uses RFID, Bluetooth, ANPR, or GPS technology to provide real-time vehicle location tracking across your site. It automatically updates preparation status as vehicles move, includes driver tracking via GPS on our driver app, and provides live updates to customers on vehicle delivery.

## Customer Testimonials

### Cartime Motor Company — Motor Company UK Limited

> "The main reason for installing VA was to gain some kind of control and visibility over where our cars were in the preparation process. It has helped people across the business identify where cars physically need to be on-site and get the teams working on cars to work more efficiently. VA adapts to the changes we need to make as a business so that it suits our individual processes, which is great."

### Chris Fogg — Logistics Manager, Sturgess

> "We use vAutoStock to handle the preparation of new and used vehicles across the group. vAutoStock has given us much better visibility and communication between different sites and departments. It is easy to use and it is refreshing to work with a business that can adapt to our business and processes."

### Richard Cowan — Sales Manager, Quest Motor Group

> "We have found vAutoStock invaluable as a one-stop shop to keep control of all our preparation processes. Before installing their system it was difficult to keep track of a car's journey through our own mechanical preparation and then onto the various outside trades."

### Craig — Hippo Motor Group

> "The biggest benefit is having large amounts of Stock Data all in one easy place to monitor. The team are very knowledgeable of the industry, helpful, friendly, and approachable. Fair to say the system has more than paid for itself in the first few months compared to our previous system."

## Case Studies

- **Hippo Motor Group**: 25% reduction in vehicle preparation time after implementing vAutoStock
- **Fresh Motors**: 10% increase in gross profit through improved preparation efficiency
- **Prestige Cars Kent**: Streamlined multi-site preparation workflow
- Full case studies: https://www.vautostock.co.uk/case-studies/

## Selected Clients

Sytner, Saxton 4x4, Sherwoods, Vospers, LSH Auto, Wilsons, V12 Sports and Classics, Ron Brooks, Mon Motors, Carbase, Prestige Cars Kent, Toni & Levoi, Broekhuis, JCT600, Georgesons, Cartime, Hippo Motor Group, Sturgess Motor Group, Quest Motor Group, Fresh Motors.

## Recent Articles

### [vAutoBots Wins – Parts accounting automation secures win for dealership](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/vautobots-wins-parts-accounting-automation-secures-win-for-dealership)
vAutoBots automates time-consuming dealership administration, including parts invoice processing, stock updates, invoicing, cost reconciliation, and other manual workflows, reducing repetitive data entry and improving operational efficiency. It integrates with existing dealership systems, can extract data from PDFs, emails, and other documents where APIs are unavailable, and allows dealerships to deploy AI automation incrementally through scalable, per-process licensing.

### [vAutoStock launches AI vehicle prep assistant](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/vautostock-launches-ai-vehicle-prep-assistant)
AI-powered vehicle prep assistant vAutoBots automates dealership admin tasks, streamlines vehicle preparation workflows, reduces manual data entry, and helps dealers save hundreds of hours every week.

### [UVeye is rapidly expanding across the UK, and we are now integrated with vAutoStock.](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/uveye-is-rapidly-expanding-across-the-uk-and-we-are-now-integrated-with-vautostock)
UVeye is an automated, AI-powered vehicle inspection system that delivers fast, consistent, and objective inspections using advanced computer vision. In just seconds, it produces a detailed, standardised vehicle condition report, helping dealers improve efficiency, increase transparency, and build trust with customers.

### [Q4 vAutoStock Updates: Faster Approvals, Clearer Visibility](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/q4-vautostock-updates-faster-approvals-clearer-visibility)
This Q4 update focuses on simplifying approvals, reducing admin, and improving visibility across vehicle preparation. From one-click work requests and single-screen approvals to real-time cost visibility and enhanced in-app messaging, these improvements help dealerships move faster with greater control.

### [Taking Hours, Not Days, to Prepare Vehicles for Sale](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/taking-hours-not-days-to-prepare-vehicles-for-sale)
Vehicle preparation is often measured in days, but the reality is that only a fraction of that time is spent working on the vehicle. This post explains why measuring actual hours worked matters, how idle time slows throughput, and how improved clocking and reporting give dealerships the visibility needed to prepare vehicles faster and more efficiently.

### [Introducing the New vAutoStock APP — Faster Arrivals, Better Prep, Real Efficiency](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/introducing-the-new-vautostock-app-faster-arrivals-better-prep-real-efficiency)
We’re excited to share one of the biggest updates we’ve made to vAutoStock in a long time: the brand new vAutoStock APP. This isn’t just an app refresh — it’s a major step forward in helping dealerships reduce prep delays, improve visibility across teams, and get vehicles retail-ready faster than ever.

### [vAutoStock Joins the Keyloop Partner Programme to Accelerate Vehicle Preparation for Dealers](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/vautostock-joins-the-keyloop-partner-programme-to-accelerate-vehicle-preparation-for-dealers)
vAutoStock is proud to announce that we have officially joined the Keyloop Partner Programme, strengthening our mission to help automotive retailers reduce preparation delays, eliminate manual processes, and increase stock turn through automation and real-time insight.

### [vAutoStock & Autoclenz Join Forces: Smarter, Seamless Vehicle Prep](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/vautostock-autoclenz-join-forces-smarter-seamless-vehicle-prep)
Discover how the new vAutoStock x Autoclenz integration transforms dealership vehicle prep. Eliminate duplication, speed up valeting, and boost time-to-sale with seamless workflows.

### [10 Years of Driving Change in the Motor Trade](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/10-years-of-driving-change-in-the-motor-trade)
From spreadsheets to streamlined systems, VAutoStock has spent the past decade transforming how dealerships operate—saving time, improving visibility, and powering smarter workflows. We’ve shared our biggest lessons from 10 years of driving change in the industry.

### [Optimising Vehicle Preparation: Insights from Chris Barrett, Founder of vAutoStock​](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/optimising-vehicle-preparation-insights-from-chris-barrett-founder-of-vautostock)
In this engaging episode of the Supplier Showcase Podcast, Chris Barrett — founder of vAutoStock — shares how his journey from car sales to software innovation led to one of the UK's most effective vehicle preparation and tracking solutions. Discover how vAutoStock is transforming dealership operations, improving stock turnaround, and helping automotive businesses gain full control of their prep process.

### [Driving Innovation: vAutoStock's Visit to Audi Sytner Wakefield](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/driving-innovation-vautostocks-visit-to-audi-sytner-wakefield)
Over the past two days, our team at VautoStock had the pleasure of visiting Audi Sytner Wakefield, where we witnessed their commitment to excellence firsthand. From a spotless workshop to family-friendly touches like mini Audi cars for kids, the experience was nothing short of impressive. We’re thrilled to have completed our software installation and to partner with such a professional, customer-focused team.

### [Exciting Growth at vAutoStock: Meet Our New Team Members!](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/exciting-growth-at-vautostock-meet-our-new-team-members)
Exciting changes are underway at vAutoStock! We're thrilled to welcome two talented professionals to our team. Ruby McTough, our new Account Manager, and Geoff Keen, our Business Development Manager, bring a wealth of experience in the motor trade and are ready to drive innovation and excellence for our clients. Meet the new faces behind our continued growth and success in 2025!

### [Traka integrates with the vAutoStock platform to present a powerful management solution for automotive dealerships](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/traka-integrates-with-the-vautostock-platform-to-present-a-powerful-management-solution-for-automotive-dealerships)
Traka Automotive has successfully integrated with the industry’s leading automated vehicle preparation tool vAutoStock, solidifying its commitment to intelligent key and vehicle traceability within the sector.

### [Vautostock featured in Car Dealer Magazine 2024](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/vautostock-featured-in-car-dealer-magazine-2024)
On Thursday 7th March our MD and Founder Chris Barrett will be at The Car Dealer Magazine show should you wish to catch up with him about anything and everything stock management and vehicle preparation.

### [vAutoStock celebrates a remarkable 66% client growth in 2023.](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/vautostock-celebrates-a-remarkable-66-client-growth-in-2023)
In the fast-paced world of automotive management, vAutoStock has emerged as a beacon of efficiency and success over the past 12 months. We are thrilled to announce a remarkable 66% surge in dealer adoption, solidifying our partnership with 133 dealers across the UK. The numbers speak for themselves, with a staggering 88% year-on-year growth, managing a fleet of 20,013 vehicles in 2023.

### [A Heartwarming Celebration: vAutoStock Joins Carbase in Spreading Joy and Giving Back this Christmas](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/a-heartwarming-celebration-vautostock-joins-carbase-in-spreading-joy-and-giving-back-this-christmas)
vAutoStock spreads holiday joy with a heartwarming contribution to Carbase's Christmas celebration. Explore the festive cheer and our impactful donation. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

### [Best Practice December – Bodywork Prep Standard](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/software/bodywork-prep-standard)
Regardless of your view on prep standards, the important part is to have a company policy and a consistent approach to monitoring this.  That way you will be able to see whether you are losing sales due to poor preparation standards.

### [Best Practice December – Fastest Prep](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/software/best-practice-december-fastest-prep)
The standout Franchise Dealership, despite potential distractions, distinguishes itself by efficiently preparing 150 vehicles in the past 15 days, boasting an impressive average turnaround time of 5.63 days per vehicle, positioning them as a formidable competitor in the used car market.

### [December Preparation Best Practice – Ensure you get the vehicle you have paid for](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/december-preparation-best-practice-ensure-you-get-the-vehicle-you-have-paid-for)
Today’s example of ‘best practice’ is about how dealers ensure that vehicles they buy are as described at the outset.

### [vAutoStock uses new website to launch new branding and marketing push](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/development/vautostock-uses-new-website-to-launch-new-branding-and-marketing-push)
Explore vAutoPrep, vAutoTrack, and Upcoming vAutoBots. Learn How vAutoPrep Can Improve Car Preparation Times and Calculate Your Potential £288,000 Profit Increase with Our New Profit Calculator. Explore Our Website for Detailed Information and Innovative Solutions.

### [vAutoStock and Autofinity to co-exhibit at AM Live 11th November 2021 at the NEC Birmingham](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/networking/vautostock-and-autofinity-to-co-exhibit-at-am-live)
AM live will take place on Thursday 11th November 2021 at the NEC Birmingham. As always, the event promises to be an inspiring and engaging day. It’s also an opportunity for motor retailers and suppliers to come together and share insight, challenges and ideas.

### [Facebook carbuyers report](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/digital/facebook-carbuyers-report)
I recently read a report commissioned for Facebook Business by Dynata.  They spoke with consumers that either bought within the last 12 months or intend to buy within the next 12 months.  I have pulled some of the key findings that I found interesting.

### [The dumbing down of the Sales Consultant – Should we go Dutch?](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/software/the-dumbing-down-of-the-sales-consultant-2)
Explore how Dutch dealer group Broekhuis revolutionizes the automotive sales industry with a unique approach. Learn how their Sales Consultants take charge from start to finish, offering customers a seamless experience. Is it time for the automotive industry to embrace this Dutch model? Find out more.

### [Sanitise function added to vAutoStock](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/software/sanitise-easily)
With vAutoStock being bespoke to each individual business it is easy to add a sanitise function to help keep showrooms safe.

### [Appointment only - a new better norm?](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/financial/appointment-only-unaccompanied-test-drive-and-click-and-collect-the-new-better-norm-2)
Today the exciting news came from Boris Johnson to confirm  car showrooms can open their sales operations in a safe manor from 1st June.  The understanding is that to enable social distancing the best way might be to work on an appointment only basis.

### [I bought a car through Cazoo](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/digital/i-bought-a-car-through-cazoo-2)
I wanted to see how revolutionary Cazoo is and I am pleased to say it is not doing anything any car dealer can’t do already with a bit of tweaking.

### [Can Helen buy online yet?](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/digital/can-helen-buy-online-yet-2)
Anna is in her 30’s with a 3 year old child. Anna has the following criteria. A budget of £6k to £7k and does not want finance. Works in London and will only use the car at weekends. It must be petrol and ULEZ compliant.

### [Tips to improve your used vehicle preparation time](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/software/improve-used-vehicle-preparation-time)
I recently read an article by Manheim which is very close to my heart regarding preparation time. It had some interesting statistics but did not go on to give any tips on how to deal with the issues it raised.

### [A great visual tool | Electronic T-Card system](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/software/a-great-visual-tool)
With the electronic T-Card system you are able to quickly see all your stock.  It is a great way to stay focused on aging stock, answer customers questions quickly and confidently.

### [Consulting](https://www.vautostock.co.uk/financial/consulting)
Initially we spend time in your business looking at your entire used vehicle operation.  We review:

## Product Family

vAutoStock is part of a family of products by Visual Automotive Limited:

- **[vAutoStock](https://www.vautostock.co.uk)** — Cloud-based vehicle preparation, tracking and automation software for dealer groups
- **[vAutoStock Enterprise](https://vautostock.app)** — Complete dealership management platform with multi-step workflows, GPS parking, AI damage detection
- **[vAutoStock Lite](https://vautostock-lite.app)** — Vehicle management app for independent dealers — workflows, damage capture, GPS parking, MOT alerts
- **[vAutoBots](https://vautobots.com)** — Intelligent RPA that automates repetitive tasks across any application — bespoke automation for dealerships
- **[vAutoParts](https://vautoparts.co.uk)** — Multi-dealer parts lifecycle management — request, quote, order, deliver, reconcile with AI invoice scanning

## Contact

- Request a demo: https://www.vautostock.co.uk/request-for-demo/
- Email: info@visualautomotive.co.uk
- Phone: +442083555805
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vautostock/