Enserve, provider of support services for utility companies, has chosen Northgate flexible rental for 450 vans across its 1,000-vehicle fleet.

Since partnering with Northgate Vehicle Hire, Enserve has seen a reduction in the costs associated with vehicle downtime and early termination fees, as well as savings of more than £30,000 per year thanks to Tracker technology and better Management Information (MI) systems.

Paul Brown, head of group fleet at Enserve, said: “Winning new contracts often requires adding to our fleet in large numbers each time. One contract win for Thames Water meant that we had to mobilise 100 vehicles within a one month period. Northgate‘s flexibility meant they were able to provide the logistical support to get these vans on the road in plenty of time, complete with customisation and livery.”  

“When we looked into the service offering from Northgate, the benefits of rental as a viable long term solution were clear. We discovered they could offer the same vehicles, at the same price and with the same specialised van equipment as contract hire and leasing suppliers but with the added benefit of flexibility.” 

Enserve’s client contracts usually last three to four years but requirements can change partway through; meaning anything from a completely new set of vehicles can be required to a contract being completed early and vehicles now surplus to contract needs. Previous contract hire and lease agreements left no room for manoeuvre leading to costly termination penalties or extra costs related to taking out a new lease. 

Under Northgate’s flexible agreement, Enserve is able to avoid these costs as vehicles can be handed back without penalty and no upfront deposit is required prior to taking new vans. 

The MI system gives Enserve visibility of its fleet at all times. Users can view details of their vehicles and ensure they are compliant, up to date with MOTs and services as well as access and download reports. 

Tracking data is used to advise drivers on smarter driving techniques to help reduce fuel spend and the frequency of repairs and replacement parts. Enserve estimates savings to be around £20,000 per year since fitting Tracker technology and improved driver behaviour has helped cut CO2 emissions. The savings have been channelled into creating a driving league with rewards for the safest drivers, boosting employee engagement and morale. 

Rebecca Sutherland, national strategic account manager at Northgate Vehicle Hire, added: “Northgate has built up a strong and trusting relationship with Enserve. We are really pleased that we have been able to provide them with a fully flexible, transparent package which responds to their ever-changing client needs whilst delivering a first class service at an affordable price. 

“Our relationship with Enserve demonstrates that flexible vehicle hire is much more than a short term option, with our flexibility and complementary products allowing us to provide a full fleet solution for businesses.”