Benfield Contract Motoring switches to Michelin tyres

A rapidly expanding contract hire and leasing company has transformed its tyre policy to focus on whole life costs and is now switching to a full Michelin policy.

Benfield Contract Motoring, which leases both cars and vans to businesses of all sizes, has started converting its fleet from mid-range tyres to Michelin in an attempt to reduce downtime and the costs associated with frequently replacing tyres.

General manager Carl Moffett, who initiated the change after recently joining the company, said he expects to see significantly improved mileage as a result of the swap.

He said: "Our ethos is to provide quality of service and flexibility to our customers, which means keeping cars on the road instead of in the workshop getting their tyres changed.

"Traditionally the company has opted for mid-range tyres as they are cheaper initially, however after working with Michelin over the past year we have identified whole life savings due to the longevity of its tyres.

"Introducing a Michelin policy across our fleet means we will we be replacing fewer tyres because of their improved wear capabilities, and we will also be providing a better service to our customers.”

Part of the Benfield Motor Group, the company operates across the UK supplying an extensive range of vehicle makes and models, and has doubled its fleet size over the last three years.

As part of its expansion plans the company has also recently launched Flexicar, a new salary sacrifice car scheme, and Moffett believes switching to a Michelin policy means customers can be reassured of the quality and safety of their tyres.

He said: "Michelin produces premium products to match our premium service, so employees and employers alike can be sure they will be getting one of the safest tyres on the market with both our contract hire and salary sacrifice services."

Based in north-east England, Benfield Contract Motoring will be replacing its current fitments with a range of Michelin tyres as wear dictates during the next year and aims to have approximately 80 per cent of its fleet converted by the end of 2013.