May
01

Online Driver Training Reducing Fleet Insurance Costs

Driving is probably the most dangerous thing you ask your employees to do. You have a duty of care towards your employees and the public road traffic law and many other health and safety regulations cover driving at work.

Companies operating vehicle fleets are taking a more targeted and sophisticated approach when training their drivers.

driver in vehicle image

“If a company used to have a poor accident record, many would simply put all their drivers through an in-vehicle course. However, that happens far less often nowadays. Most businesses use an initial online risk assessment to draw up a profile of each driver, so that they can determine their strengths and weaknesses. In many cases this is then compared to accident records and fuel usage to decide what training is required, if any, and what form of training is most appropriate,” said Jonathan Mosley, Director of Sales and Marketing at online driver risk assessment and training organisation E-Training World.

Driver trainingprogrammes result in drivers having a greater understanding of their responsibility and how this may affect their company or organisation. This is demonstrated through enhanced driving techniques, improved behaviour and a more responsible attitude.

Such an improved approach to road safety and driving by the individual will influence to an improved public image of a company by the public, saving in running costs and safeguarding individuals and company or organisations assets. Above all the safety of the individual driver, passengers and the general public is improved.

In addition to the individual benefits of enhanced safety, organisations will see a reduction in their overall fleet fuel costs, vehicle incident rates, down time, insurance premiums and general maintenance costs.

If you’re able to prove that you’re a safe driver with your no claims bonus proof you could pay much less for your cover. Look for insurance brokers such as Plan Insurance and ask for discounted rates now. They specialise in providing quality cover and have exceptional deals for amongst other products chauffeur insurance!

Apr
30

VW Fleet Emissions Guide

Are you a fleet manager that is confused by all the CO2 emissions figures? If you are unsure as to which vehicle will be best suited to your financial situations than choosing low emitting vehicles just got easier for you as Volkswagen published a series of price lists, based on CO2 emissions.

According to the Motor Trade News, “The guide list details all the cars with emissions of 140 g/km and below, including the TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines, along with the company’s range of vehicles with Blue Motion and Blue Motion Technologies modifications such as improved aerodynamics and low rolling resistance tyres.”

Apart from documenting tailpipe emissions, the price lists also review combined fuel economy, power output, price P11D values, Benefit In Kind, and the monthly cost for a 20% or 40% taxpayer.

Volkswagen received a lot of positive feedback from the initial list that they published in 2009.

“Although all our fleet price lists contain this information, we believe this makes people’s lives and vehicle selections easier – as the information is contained in one easy to use guide.

“The publication of this guide has also highlighted the breadth of the Volkswagen range, demonstrating that you don’t need to compromise on comfort or performance to drive a car which offers low emissions,” said Tracey Rossetti, Volkswagen Fleet Services’ communications manager.

Volkswagen logo image

The guide contains 14 model ranges, including the new up! city car, the Touran, Golf Cabriolet, Polo, Golf and Passat ranges.

Whatever type of commercial fleet insurance you use, Plan Insurance remind everyone to check their insurance policies to make sure the vehicles will be fully covered. If not already insured, look for insurance brokers and if required make sure to get hgv insurance immediately!

Apr
29

Discounted Speed Limitation Devices for Fleet Managers

Cobra UK is launching a campaign to highlight the benefits to fleet operators of speed limiters. The leader in vehicle safety and security solutions is launching its campaign at this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show.

The device will not only enable fleet managers to set a speed limit for company vehicles, thus improving safety, but the device can also boost fuel economy. Cobra is offering its speed limiter at a special price of just £249* including fitting, saving customers at least £50.

Speed limitation devices are already a statutory requirement throughout the EU for goods vehicles

According to a recent independent test by Fleet Van magazine, a Volkswagen Transporter Sportline fitted with a Cobra speed limiter set at 56 mph achieved a 37% reduction in fuel use.
Speedometer Image

The speed limit on Britain’s motorways will rise to 80mph. Former Transport Secretary Philip Hammond said the current limit was ‘out of date’ and a higher one would bring economic benefits when introduced in 2013.

Despite the ruling being attacked by road safety campaigners and environmentalists, Mr Hammond defended the speed limit rise, saying its impact on road safety would be ‘marginal’.

‘There are good reasons for making 80 the new 70, and good reasons not to. Drivers travelling that 10mph quicker might reach their destination sooner, but will use about 20 per cent more fuel and emit 20 per cent more CO2,’ commented on the subject, Professor Stephen Glaister, director of the RAC Foundation.

‘There is also likely to be a slight increase in road casualties,’ he added.

If not already insured, look for insurance brokers such as Plan Insurance. Their knowledge will reveal ways you can save money on your chauffeur insurance policies.

Apr
28

New Ferrari Showroom in Leeds

JCT 600 Brooklands has opened its new Ferrari showroom in Leeds, marking a 30 year partnership with the Italian supercar manufacturer. JCT600 has 42 dealerships throughout Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire and the North East while JCT600 Brooklands is the first dealership in the north east of England to represent the new CI of the brand.

Ferrari image

The new showroom features a customer lounge, handover bay and a shop modelled on the one at the factory in Maranello, where customers can specify their new Ferrari from the countless personalisation options offered.

“The Ferrari dealership has undergone an extensive refurbishment which has taken over six months to complete. The result is a landmark facility for our customers where they can view these beautiful cars in spacious, luxurious surroundings,” said David Clapham, brand director specialist cars at JCT600 Brooklands.

“It seems particularly fitting that we are celebrating the opening of these fantastic new premises in the same year we are marking the 30th anniversary of our relationship with Ferrari which remains a great flagship brand for JCT600 Brooklands and our customers,” he added.

Additionally, Matteo Torre, regional manager for Ferrari North Europe, commented on the subject: “Ferrari’s new brand identity is designed to provide a welcoming environment for customers, who can relax and enjoy the purchase and ownership experience.”

The hire car market is increasing in popularity and the hiring of sports cars is enjoying a great degree of success. This is mainly due to the fact that one can reap the benefits of experiencing a great car, without experiencing the potential hazards that often come with purchasing the same vehicle, for instance, depreciation, running costs and repairs.

Private Hire insurance is different to Self Drive Hire. You wouldn’t be eligible for a private hire insurance policy in one of these high end sports vehicles at Plan Insurance but then again you probably wouldn’t want to or be able to carry too many  passengers!

Apr
27

Bentley Announce Mulsanne Diamond Jubilee Edition

In honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee, Bentley have announced 60 special-edition Mulsannes, each car representing a year of Her Majesty’s reign.

Bentley won’t be displaying the first example in England. The first example of its Mulsanne Diamond Jubilee Edition was unveiled on 21st of April at the gala opening of one of the world’s largest Bentley dealerships in China, which is now the largest market for Bentley Motors.

Chinais the largest market for Bentley Motors. In 2011 the company sold 1,664 cars to Chinese customers and during the first quarter of 2012 sales in the region grew by 84.66 percent compared with the same period in 2011.

“The respect and genuine interest shown towards so many aspects of British life, and most especially The Royal Family, has made Chinaa unique experience for our marque as well as many other UK businesses,” said Richard Charlesworth, Director of Royal and VIP Relations, Bentley Motors.

“This series of special cars, hand-built by our Mulliner Division, is our way of reciprocating the appreciation for British institutions, creativity and services we have been shown in China. And as proud holders of a Royal Warrant we also wanted to provide some memorable examples of British technology and craftsmanship,” he added.

bentley car image

The Bentley Mulsanne Diamond Jubilee Edition features some very exquisite details on the interior. According to Motor Trade News, “Each will include a raft of bespoke touches, such as embroidery to all four headrests using gold stitching, veneered picnic tables in the rear decorated with a gold overlay depicting a royal carriage and leather cushions.” Moreover, the cars are easily identified by their pinstriping along the beltline and a small Bentley badge on the C-pillar.

Such a luxury car  would make a perfect vehicle for any of our high roller driving chauffeur clients. To get a Chauffeur Insurance policy it is best to consult specialist insurance brokers such as Plan Insurance.

 

Apr
26

Sainsburys Obtain Van Excellence Accreditation

Sainsbury’s has become the first supermarket to win accreditation to the Van Excellence scheme. The programme was launched in 2010 by the Freight Transport Association as an initiative to raise the standard of fleet service providers across the UK.

The UK retailer has become the 25th business to receive Van Excellence accreditation. Over a hundred van fleets have now registered with Van Excellence, operating between them over 100,000 vehicles. A further 70 businesses are also at various stages of applying for accreditation.

Commenting on the subject, Mark Cartwright, Head of Vans and Light Commercial Vehicles for the FTA, said: “Sainsbury’s is the UK’s second largest online grocery retailer, delivering over 165,000 orders a week worth over £750 million per annum. It has a fleet of 1,400 vans operated by over 4,000 drivers.

sainsbury trolley image

“Achievement of this standard has been a significant investment in hard work and commitment by the company and we congratulate Sainsbury’s on their successful accreditation.  We look forward to working with them and the members of the Van Excellence Governance Group to maintain and develop the reputation of van operations with the public and the Government.”

The FTA’s Van Excellence Scheme has been honoured as the best new service at the Fleet News Awards 2012.

In order to become accredited under the programme, fleet operators must demonstrate a code of practice for their drivers, have systems in place to check roadworthiness of vehicles, driver entitlement, load security and other safety aspects, and meet the minimum requirements as set out in law.

If you need assistance in regards to lorry insurance, HGV insurance or any type of motor fleet insurance contact specialist insurance brokers Plan Insurance.

Apr
22

Fleet of Chauffeur driven BMW’s for London 2012

BMW won the contract to become the Official Automotive Partner for London 2012. This week BMW have revealed pictures of the high performance cars that will be chauffeur driven for Olympic chiefs during the Olympic Games this summer. The on loan chauffeur fleet will consist of 4,000 vehicles to ferry about 250 highest-ranking official and politicians in chauffeur driven BMW’s along exclusive VIP only routes this summer.

Most of the cars will be BMW 3 and 5 series saloon cars bearing the London Olympic logo. Other motor brands will also be part of the Olympic fleet such as Minis and motorcycles.  All these vehicles will be diesel powered and produce less CO2 emissions, in order to be more eco friendly.

BMW Olympic Vehicle

LOCOG, the Olympic organisers have asked professional driving instructors to provide training to the chauffeurs as Sharon Perrier said “Even if you have been driving for years, there is always room for improvement.”

The Chauffeur drivers will be volunteers and will be graded on their driver skills. Grade one drivers will get to drive the VIPs, while grade 2 will whisk athletes and their families around the games. Grade 3 will only be allowed to deliver parcels while grade 4 drivers, whose driving standard is low, will be given other tasks.

Plan Insurance are expert and professional insurance brokers who can help find you the best chauffeur insurance and provide the best motor fleet insurance for your business.

Apr
22

Hyundai Cars for Enterprise Plc Fleet

Hyundai has secured a major fleet deal following the order to supply 500 new cars to Enterprise Plc.

Enterprise logo

Enterprise Plc is one of the UK’s largest providers of maintenance and front-line services to the public sector and utility industry. In addition to maintaining key infrastructure assets for utility companies, Enterprise PLC also provides frontline services to local authorities and government organisations in the UK.

Following an extensive evaluation process to find alternatives to help optimise its fleet efficiency, Blue Chip firm Enterprise chose Hyundai as its new preferred fleet supplier. A mixture of new Hyundai i40 and New Generation i30 joined the existing vehicle fleet.

Philip Preston, Commercial Director Operations at Enterprise PLC, said: “We conducted an in-depth investigation into whole life costs of our fleet, looking at vehicle emissions, BiK tax benefits and vehicle performance. Hyundai came out on top and offered the best overall package for us and our fleet operation.”

Commenting on the subject, Martin Wilson, National Fleet Sales Manager at Hyundai Motor UK, said: “At Hyundai, we are continually growing and improving our entire fleet offering from the products that we sell to the support services we offer to customers. We are delighted that a Blue Chip company such as Enterprise PLC has chosen Hyundai and this further confirms that our products tick all the boxes for large fleet operators. We are looking forward to partnering with Enterprise PLC in helping them achieve greater fleet optimisation and efficiency.”

Should a motor fleet insurance be the type of policy you require, Plan Insurance can offer you very competitively priced comprehensive insurance cover. They’ll tailor your commercial van insurance to meet your exact needs and keep costs to a minimum. That’s why it makes sense to deal with an insurance broker.

Apr
21

UK’s Most Vandalised Car 2011/12

Robin Reames from Swiftcover car insurance carried out research to find out which car was most likely to be vandalised in Britain.

The Fiat 500 topped the list this year as the car that was most likely to be vandalised car on the roads knocking off the Lexus IS. Although it is expected that luxury cars are the most likely to be targeted by vandals, “owners of everyday vehicles shouldn’t consider themselves immuned,” says Robin Reames.

Fiat logo

Porsche was overall the car brand that was mostly likely to be vandalised along with other luxury cars such as Audi TT and BMW Z4. Luxury cars are targeted because vandals may see these are driven by high income earners who may use their car as a status symbol.

It is difficult to prevent your cars being targeted but owners should take extra precautions such as not leaving valuables in their car. Other options could be to keep vehicles out of sight in a garage or adding extra security features.

Car owners should check what is included in their motor insurance policies and see if there are options to protect your vehicle if it was vandalised. Speak to specialist insurance brokers such as Plan Insurance today and see what they can offer.

Apr
21

The New Mercedes-Benz Citan

We all think of Mercedes-Benz as a luxury auto maker but in Europe it is also known for its trucks and vans range.

The new Mercedes-Benz Citan is described as an urban delivery vehicle designed for Europe’s crowded cities and it is smaller than the existing Sprinter Vario, Viano and Vito vans.

The Mercedes-Benz Citan which will make its public debut at the IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover in September 2012, will expand the German automaker’s family of vans in Europe. The Citan is being offered in three lengths — compact, long and extra long — and three different model variants — a panel van, a crew bus and a passenger version called Mixto.

Mercedes Citan Van Image

Although the Citan by design won’t be as luxurious as we’d expect a Mercedes to be, it does feature a more ergonomic cabin design than most vehicles in this segment. The van is one of the first models of a partnership announced two years ago between Daimler and the Renault-Nissan Alliance. At the time, the companies said they planned joint development of vehicles — from small cars to light commercial vehicles — and technology sharing on engines, batteries and electric cars.

As safety was a top priority for this commercial vehicle, the standard features include as Adaptive Electronic Stability Program which simultaneously incorporates ABS (anti-locking braking system), VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), TCS (Traction Control System) and ASR (Acceleration Skid Control) for drive and braking torque control.

The Citan which closely resembled the Kangoo in side profile, will be assembled alongside the Kangoo at Renault’s Maubeuge plant in France, and goes on sale across Europe before the end of the year.

If not already insured, look for insurance brokers and make sure to get a commercial van insurance policy sorted immediately! Plan Insurance can offer incredibly competitive cover.

 

 

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