FLEET operators will be able to improve vehicle efficiency and reduce running costs through a deal struck between vehicle location company Tracker Network and ARVAL PHH. The deal will see Tracker Network's automatic vehicle location (AVL) equipment offered to thousands of fleet operators who use ARVAL PHH's services.

The AVL systems work through satellite location systems and mobile communications technology to track vehicles. Fleet managers can then access vehicle reports giving speed, distance travelled, direction and waiting times over the internet. The product will be offered to all ARVAL PHH's drivers but it is expected that the light commercial vehicle sector will be the main user.

Nigel Taylor, director of commercial vehicles at ARVAL PHH, said: 'Being able to manage vehicle utilisation in addition to our core vehicle management services will bring efficiency improvements and cost reductions for many of our clients.' Kevin Watters, Tracker Network's managing director, said: 'Our partnership with ARVAL PHH will increase the availability of AVL solutions to their extensive range of commercial customers.'