Lead times are on the increase, even for the most popular fleet cars, according to Grosvenor Contracts Leasing.

The Kettering-based company is advising clients that they should be factoring this extended wait into their vehicle replacement cycles, as delivery can now be up to 12 weeks.

“These protracted lead times are as a direct result of the cuts to vehicle production and the need for manufacturers to raise cash within their operations by reducing new car inventory - no longer are the manufacturers holding stocks,” explained Grosvenor managing director Shaun Barritt.