RAC is claiming to be the first motoring organisation to launch a new rescue capability for fleets with extra-long vehicles.

Fleets with vehicles up to 7.5m in length and 3.5 tons in weight will be offered the service under an annual subscription, meaning the likes of the Volkswagen Crafter and Mercedes Sprinter can now be catered for in the event of a breakdown.

Previously, any vehicle over 5.5m was offered a pay-on-use service from RAC Commercial Assistance. Under the revised subscription offer for SME fleets, a business with 12 vehicles over 5.5m in length could now save more than £1,000 a year.

In addition, fleets now have the option to include standard driver induced faults, covered by RAC branded patrols.

Steve Whitmarsh, senior partnership manager at RAC Fleet Services, said: “We have listened to feedback from our customers and have focused on these areas to offer a more convenient and cost-effective service for mixed fleets, widening our appeal to our core fleet market which is six vehicles or more.

“Previously, fleets had two separate call-out numbers, now there’s only one making the whole process smoother. Incorporating everything into one package also means that customers will find it a lot easier to keep track of costs.”