CCIA: Fleets should reconsider petrol, says Vauxhall

New for 2016?

Mokka X and facelifted Zafira Tourer (both for delivery Q4), 1.6 CDTi BiTurbo 160hp engine for Astra

What new initiatives are you introducing for fleets?

Vauxhall has developed its aftersales service for fleets with the introduction of its premium SMR+ package. This package for routine servicing includes additional items such as brake fluid changes, maintenance work (brake discs, pads and clutches), and mechanical/electrical warranty work.

What are you hopes for 2016?

“Our focus for 2016 is to build on the great product that Astra is and has been recognised to be whether that’s through awards from Fleet News, other titles and or being names European car of the year,” says Paul Adler, fleet marketing manager for Vauxhall.

“We will see our true fleet sales gain momentum this year when we get full availability of Astra Sport Tourer, we are starting to see traction in Astra and I think there’s more to come because people are revaluating the model. One of our hopes for 2016 is to build on that momentum created by new Astra and the launch of new cars in Q4.”

What’s the biggest automotive issue facing fleets this year?

“The issue of NOx could have a big impact,” said Adler. Company car tax is based on CO2 emissions, but air quality concerns could see NOx be taken into account, he added.

“That will make a fundamental difference to clean petrol engines being taken up,” says Adler. “A lot of people already want to know about efficient petrols.

“They are aware there have been some challenges with diesel within the industry, and are keen to look at, perhaps reconsider petrol, and our own research shows that more fleets that were diesel-only are going to be looking at that policy than six months ago.

“The diesel growth came from the CO2-based tax culture, so it will be Government-led changes which will lead the industry.”