I’ve had some worrying conversations with a few fleet managers who have accused leasing companies of taking advantage of the confusion surrounding the new fuel test regime (WLTP) by inflating lease prices.

They don’t have concrete proof; just a nagging feeling that rates rises aren’t all entirely down to the impact of rising official CO2 emissions on residual values.

It’s a throwback to 2008/09 when the temporary collapse in residual values caused by the recession saw a spike in end-of-contract damage charges being applied by some leasing providers.

Regardless of whether this is happening, what’s clear is that some fleets still view their leasing provider with suspicion.

It’s awards time again – your chance to enter the UK fleet sector’s most prestigious, meaningful and prominent awards.

We’ve made a few changes to make it easier for you to get involved and we’ve done a bit of digging to illustrate the reasons why you should set aside some time to complete the entry.

Namely, the fact that simply being shortlisted for awards has been proven to have direct business benefits – tender wins, motivated staff, improved recruitment among them.

For an individual, it’s a chance to test their skills and abilities, and for recognition by your peers; for the company it’s a confirmation of their credibility in an area of business of growing interest to customers who are looking for proof that you are running a safe, environmentally aware fleet.

Yes, it takes a little longer to enter our awards than others, but that’s because the judging process is more robust – underlined by the fact that we have an independent chairman and the process is fully audited.

More articles on: