WHAT Car? and AutoHunter have announced a new Internet alliance bringing together two key automotive sites to create a driving force for online car sales.

This unique partnership combines the strength of two publishing giants - AutoHunter, the online used car database of the UK's regional press, and What Car? magazine.

Links have been established on both sites giving users easy access to a bank of complementary data and content.

Ms Sue Falcke, the general manager of ADHunter said: "This is the first step towards a close working relationship and gives users of both web sites access to unparalleled content.

"AutoHunter has the largest and most up-to-date database of used cars for sale in the UK and What Car? is the first place people turn to when seeking authoritative and independent advice and information in the car buying process. This is a powerful combination."

AutoHunter's key strength is its extensive used car database, which averages 200,000 vehicles for sale at any one time and is updated daily. These are supplied through more than 800 local daily and weekly newspapers across the UK and represent vehicles advertised for sale from 80 per cent of the UK's regional press. The car database links to road tests and price guides, and users can investigate finance and insurance online.

And, if they cannot find the perfect car, AutoHunter's Smart Search system will run a daily search and notify them by e-mail of new cars which match the criteria they have identified.

In addition to cars for sale, AutoHunter includes motocycles, commercial vehicles, boats and caravans.

What Car? Online reflects the values of the magazine, a massive consumer title and influential brand name, in presenting objective and reliable advice and information.

The user can access comprehensive new and used car information, compare models, get valuations and access dealers and manufacturers to order brochures or book test drives online as well as identify information on other car-related products and services.

Launched in April 1998, its recent ABC Electronic audit verifies a monthly page impression average of 2,251,432 making it one of the most heavily visited UK motoring sites.

Jo Biggs, the sales director of Haymarket Motoring, said: "This alliance results in the ultimate 'one stop shop' for the motoring consumer, with its combination of the best information and biggest marketplace of both private and dealer cars for sale."

Story date: Wednesday 19 May

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