ATLANTA -

Manheim announced Thursday that it has expanded its mobile auction network by adding two trucks to the 14 mobile units already in operation. The company also announced that it will add up to eight more by the end of the year, bringing the total count for its mobile fleet up to 24.

The new mobile vehicles, which will be first used in Pennsylvania and Texas, feature a portable unit, which Manheim calls an “auction in the box,” that can be placed just about anywhere — in a dealership, conference room, warehouse, open field, or anywhere else, to facilitate an auction.

“Our customers tell us they need easier, more convenient ways to buy and sell,” said Janet Barnard, president of Manheim North America. “Backed by more than a decade of success in conducting mobile auctions, these sales are offering dealers in underserved markets another way to conduct business based on their needs.”

With an auctioneer in tow, the mobile auctions provide all of the technology of a traditional auction at Manheim, including Simulcast, which enables the auctioneer to bid live on premise and online. The company also provides support services to those bidding, including financing, condition reporting and inspection services.

The whole process allows the dealer to host the auction on its own premises without having to move all of the inventory to another location. Manheim hosts at least 25 mobile auctions every month with an average of 100 participants.

“The investments we are making in our mobile auction network represents our commitment to all of our customers – from small, independent dealers to large franchises and everyone in between,” Barnard said. “Not only are we better able to cater to their specific needs, but we’re also extending the reach and excitement of the live, wholesale auction experience.”