AUTOMOTIVE Leasing has become the first leasing company to outsource its maintenance management to a third party in a unique deal with Halfords. The public sector leasing specialist has set up a Halfords implant at its Sussex headquarters to manage maintenance on behalf of a 1,200 nationally-based fleet.

Similar in concept to Lex Vehicle Leasing's One Call service, which uses Lex's network of Autocentres for maintenance, the system uses Halford's Autofleet service. Established seven years ago, Autofleet offers fleets manufacturer-approved schedules or Halfords' own maintenance packages at fixed prices and has built up a respectable client base in recent years.

Under the terms of the arrangement, drivers telephone Halfords staff at the implant to book their cars in for service. The work is then referred to the nearest branch in Halfords' 135-strong network, where staff will pick up the car, service and valet it, before delivering it back to the driver. All work is fully guaranteed by Halfords and vehicle warranties and service histories are not affected.