INFORMATION held on fleet management software systems about the fuel use and movements of company car drivers can be a key tool in fighting back against the effects of fuel blockades, Car Fleet Control said this week. Director Jason Francis says the data is readily available to the 50% or more of fleet managers who use specialist software and it can play a crucial role on helping them to maintain the business effectiveness of their fleet.

With most fuel stations appearing to continue to sell fuel, Francis said fleet managers could build up a picture of which drivers were most likely to be affected if further protests were launched by looking at fuel purchasing data and the outlets where fuel was bought.

'What the data stored on fleet software should allow the fleet manager to do is to identify which drivers are most at risk by looking at their fuel usage patterns. Those who cover hundreds of miles and buy fuel daily are clearly most likely to be affected. These drivers can then be given advice on how to plan ahead.'

*THE AA has bought PetrolBusters.com for £250,000. The website allows users to log in for free access to find the cheapest petrol in their area. The AA said the deal was the first step in a series of planned improvements to the AA's website which will be relaunched before the end of this year.