FLEETS could slash maintenance costs by using quality recycled vehicle parts without affecting the safety of employees, the National Salvage Group is claiming. The group, which represents operators throughout the salvage industry, has launched an online stock locator giving repairers access to millions of new and used stock parts.

The move follows the launch of the firm's NSGenius website, a database that can be used by police, insurance companies and NSG members to provide instant details of written-off vehicles. More than 20 centres are now taking part in the stock location initiative, based at the firm's website, www.nsg.ltd.uk.

Recycled components are checked by NSG members to ensure safety standards are met, with next day delivery offered. NSG general manager Alison Carey said: 'A misleading stereotype is that people tend to associate salvage agents with parts for older vehicles, but our members get new vehicles which have almost brand new parts on them.

'Recycled parts and accessories can almost be as good as new and any motorised parts come with a guarantee.' NSG member companies handle more than 100,000 cars and light commercial vehicles every year, with an annual turnover of more than £60 million.