Why AutoFlare Exists…

This is the original blog post by our Founder, Adam, on why he started AutoFlare, June 2024:

A few months ago I went to sell a car on Autotrader.

I uploaded the photos, wrote the description, and selected all the options…

Then, to my extreme irritation, I got this message:

That’s right, unless you are prepared to send Autotrader (as well as whoever they share data with) your passport and a picture of yourself, you cannot place an ad!

I can only assume that Autotrader have been infiltrated by the surveillance state, because this seems to make no sense at all from a business point of view.

Anyhow, I personally REFUSE to participate in this kind of surveillance.

I was so irritated that I sent a message to our Web Developer, Adrian, with my intention to start a competitor to Autotrader that would:

1 – Be easier to use;

2 – Much cheaper (initially free);

3 – Would *never* ask for, or store customers personal information.

Anyway, several months on and we have a working prototype!

I’m not sure whether this car buying/selling site will be just for BTST Members, or whether it might “take off” as a true competitor to Autotrader.

Either way, we need a name for it!

Of course, it needs to be a name where the domain is available.

I’m thinking we need something catchy and memorable, but honestly, I’m drawing a blank.

BTST Member Competition:

I’d like to invite Members to suggest a name for the new website.

> To enter, simply leave your suggestion(s) for a name in the comments below:

Winner/s will be notified directly by email!

All the best,

Adam

…and that was how we came up with the name AutoFlare.co.uk!