THREE separate sessions provided in-depth debate.

  • THE difficulties fleet managers face when attempting to meet their drivers’ needs was highlighted in a breakout conference session.
    Looking at what company car drivers want from their fleets, the session found that there are different grades of needs, depending on driver circumstances.
    Vehicles that are reliable and fit for purpose were an obvious and common requirement, the session heard.
    A presentation from Andrew Howard, head of road safety at the AA Motoring Trust, referred to a study it completed with Volkswagen into the needs of van drivers.
    For example, price would be a key factor for a self-employed driver but not for those employed by a company, who may consider brand, colour and safety.

  • AN insight into some of the factors affecting residual values now and in the future was provided by Mark Cowling, operations director at CAP.
    Cowling said the last successful move towards alternative fuel – diesel – was down to four main factors: tax incentives, a good availability of fuel, public awareness of the benefits of diesel, and the positive impact that awareness had on RVs.
    Support from government is needed if biofuels are going to be successful.