Six in 10 fleets have introduced CO2 emissions caps according to the latest research from Fleet News.

The majority of them have settled for the 160g/km Capital Allowance threshold, above which just 10% of the depreciation cost of the car can be written down against tax.

The findings, from an exclusive Fleet News environment survey, reveal that while 65% of fleets have opted for 160g/km, the second most popular limit is 120g/km, chosen by 10%.

None have plumped for the 110g/km cap below which they can write down 100% of the first year depreciation cost against tax.

The rest were spread about but, altogether, 91% have set a cap of 160g/km or below.

Almost 12% of the fleets have opted for a tiered capping policy; several have a policy of reducing the cap levels each year, typically by 5%.

The findings are reflected in the registrations data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, which show that average CO2 emissions from all new company cars sold this year is 158.4g/km, down from almost 165g/km last year.

Leasing companies also report that companies are pursuing greener policies which are reflected in falling average CO2 figures.

A Fleet News survey of eight of the BVRLA’s largest members, which have a combined fleet of more than 630,000 cars, found that average CO2 emissions of their company car fleets is 152.9g/km.

However, new business is averaging just 145g/km.

The results reflect the Fleet News Eco-brand survey, which shows a much greater level of awareness among fleets of manufacturers’ eco brands compared to a year ago.

Two main drivers are encouraging fleets to go green: Government taxation and customer demands.

Just over 70% of fleets say their company’s green credentials – including fleet policies – have become an important factor when tendering for business.

Policy is being driven at board levels but, increasingly, senior directors are setting a personal example.

Almost one-third of fleets said that directors had given up a big engine vehicle in favour of a more efficient, lower emitting model.

A year ago, just 16% had handed back their gas-guzzler and opted for a smaller car.

“There is a definite trend away from higher emitting cars as directors become more aware of the direct relationship between high CO2 and high fuel costs,” said ACFO chairman Julie Jenner.

“Where fleet managers have introduced CO2 caps it is good to see company directors now leading by example.”

And for those managers faced with a director who refuses to move to a lower emitting car, Jenner advises a two-pronged approach.

“Prepare a convincing business case that shows how much it is costing the company and the director personally to run a high polluting car, and then educate them on the growing number of executive cars that now fall well below the 160g/km benchmark,” she said.

See this week's Fleet News environmental survey on p32-35 for more.