While the future of LDv hangs in the balance (see lead story) fleet managers have been assured that servicing and warranty cover is set to continue to be provided by LDV dealers.

A common warranty policy to operate nationwide is at the centre of crisis talks being held by the stricken firm’s dealer network and the discussions are already at an advanced stage, Fleet News understands.

Just three years after driving to what seemed to be a secure future in Russian multi-billionaire oligarch Oleg Derepaska’s business empire, the Midlands’ operation has finally run out of road.

Dealer council chairman David Lewis, of Bristol-based Imperial Commercials, declined to comment.

But Ron Ball, dealer principal at Chatfields, Britain’s biggest LDV dealer, said: “We heard about the move to administration only 15 minutes before it was on the news, so we’ve had hardly any time to make arrangements as yet, even though the fate pf LDV has been an on-off affair for several months.

“This is a difficult time, but the dealer council is working hard to develop a common policy for warranty work.

"I can’t be specific at the moment, but our aim is to provide security for our clients and you can rest assured that our intention is to be honourable.’

Maxus southern fleet sales director Carolyn Wall said: “Many discussions have been taking place since the company filed for administration and I can’t comment further, except to say that dealers who are holding stock vehicles will carry on trying to sell them.”

According to the company’s website, LDV vehicles are backed by a four-year, 120,000-mile warranty operated through 132 service dealers.