An established sole trader was ready to take their business to the next level – stepping up from traditional taxi work into the luxury chauffeur space. With ambitions to work for Wheely, a premium ride service, the client invested in a brand-new Mercedes E-Class to elevate their offering.
Highlights of the Deal…
✅ Funded a new Mercedes E-Class despite initial lender decline
✅ Achieved a competitive rate the customer was happy with
✅ Secured flexible settlement terms for future upgrades
✅ Presented a strong case demonstrating true business performance
✅ Helped the client take their first step into the luxury chauffeur market
The Challenge
Although the client was an experienced driver with a strong track record as a sole trader, their finance application was initially declined by Mercedes Finance.
The reason? The client had taken a well-earned summer break before the new vehicle arrived – a short pause in trading that temporarily impacted turnover and made affordability appear weaker than it actually was.
The key challenges were:
- Temporary Income Gap – The seasonal break affected the client’s financial snapshot at the time of application.
- Perceived Risk – Lenders viewed the reduced turnover period as a red flag, despite the business’s consistent historical performance.
- Limited Options – Standard lenders were reluctant to look past automated affordability checks without deeper context.
The Solution
By taking time to fully understand the client’s business, reviewing bank statements, and demonstrating their typical trading pattern and overall stability, we were able to build a compelling case for lenders.
Strong Business Case: We clearly presented the client’s usual income levels, proving the summer break was a one-off event.
Tailored Finance Approval: Secured funding for the brand-new Mercedes E-Class on terms that reflected the business’s real performance.
Competitive Rate: Achieved the best available rate that met the customer’s expectations and long-term affordability goals.
Flexible Future Options: Structured the agreement with competitive settlement terms, ensuring the client wouldn’t be locked into high interest if they choose to upgrade to a higher-end vehicle in the near future.
This solution not only delivered the funding required but also gave the client the flexibility to grow – creating a solid foundation for their move into the premium chauffeur market.
With the new Mercedes E-Class funded and on the road, the client is now positioned to begin working with Wheely, expanding their earning potential and professional image. Despite initial barriers, we turned a declined application into a successful, affordable, and future-ready finance agreement.
Speak to our Chauffeur Finance Specialist…
Robyn Rawling
Account Manager
Mobile: 07592 503 477
Office: 01908 039 489