Greener Fleets
The Kyoto Protocol on climate change has set an agreed framework for developed countries that by 2005 to 2012 they would reduce their annual greenhouse gas emissions by amounts that in aggregate represent a reduction of 5.2 per cent from the 1990 level.
An obvious means of reducing your contribution to air pollution and the depletion of non-renewable natural resources would be by limiting the number of vehicle miles you drive. Many companies find this is a difficult option and believe it would cause resentment amongst employees. This certainly does not have to be the case. There are various available methods that can encourage environmental improvements and maintain staff morale.
If employees have opted out of company car schemes, employers should consider requiring them to use a hire/pool car for business travel. It is more than likely that the hire/pool car will be greener than their own vehicle. VELO provides a consultancy service to clients advising on the cleanest vehicles based on individual driver/job profiles. CO2 emissions can be reduced if organisations use the most fuel-efficient and lowest emitting vehicle within the vehicle class and won't compromise their transportation needs.
There is a range of fuel economies from which to choose from within a vehicle class and it is commonly mistaken that diesel is the best option. Despite diesel fuel improving fuel efficiency, it also creates a very fine particulate matter which is a significant health risk and outweighs the gains made in fuel efficiency so this may not be the best option.
Where possible, companies should avoid using larger, more powerful vehicles than necessary as not only will it cost more it will also generate more CO2 released per mile.
Although car sharing and the use of public transport can effectively help reduce CO2 emissions, they are commonly regarded as unpopular policies with employees. In this instance companies need to consider alternative ways of actively promoting and encouraging environmental awareness and knowledge to their employees, customers and suppliers, whilst also implementing procedures that will minimise usage of energy and materials.
Over 35 per cent of all accidents involve cars being driven on business and to reduce this it is inevitable that there will be an increase in the application of fines, penalties and points. However, employers can also play a part by educating their employees on safer and 'greener' driving behaviour.
Aggressive driving habits can drastically increase emissions while decreasing fuel economy. Rapid acceleration, excessive speeds and hauling heavy loads are all key contributors to emitting CO2 but this can be easily avoided with the right guidance and advice.
To maintain a greener car fleet companies should consider the replacement cycle of their vehicles. With the continual development of greener vehicles, regularly updating the cycle will ensure the greener cars get into your fleet sooner.
Pressure form the government to reduce road usage is already apparent by the introduction of congestion charging in London and an increase in toll roads. It is anticipated that this will soon become adopted in more cities and consequently effect more companies.
Therefore it is advisable for any company requiring a vehicle strategy to ensure they work closely with a leasing and fleet management specialist that not only understands the company's needs but can also provide initiatives that encourage environmental improvements wherever possible.
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Leasedrive Velo is the largest independent privately-owned vehicle management group in the UK and comprises two main operating divisions.
Leasedrive Velo Vehicle Management
Working in partnership with fleet managers, or delivering a complete outsourced service, Leasedrive Velo offers blue chip clients a range of bespoke fleet management services. Major investments in the finest asset management system and pioneering, flexible, web-based customer service technology have resulted in Leasedrive Velo offering customers a truly world class fleet management service capability.
Leasedrive Velo Rental Management
One of the largest short-term vehicle rental management companies in the UK, with access to an almost unlimited choice of vehicles and locations throughout the country, Leasedrive Velo Rental Management offers a simple and transparent pricing policy with no hidden surcharges. For rentals of 28 days or more, it offers the Stopgap mid-term vehicle rental solution. Rates are substantially reduced compared to daily rental.
The headquarters for Leasedrive Velo is at hi-tech offices at TRL in Wokingham. Leasedrive Velo is the winner of the 2006 Fleet News Award for 'Best Contract Hire/Fleet Management Company', the 2006 GreenFleet Award for 'Leasing/Rental Company of the Year', The 2006, 2007 and 2008 Thames Valley Business Awards for 'Business Management Team of the Year', the 2007 ITM Award for 'Independent Vehicle Management Company' and the 2008 ITM Award for 'Fleet Management Company'.
For further press information on Leasedrive Velo, contact:
Mr Jeremy Snook
JSPR Ltd
Telephone: 01488 670002
Mobile: 07957 867139
Facsimile: 01488 670008
E-mail: jeremy.snook@jspr.co.uk
Website: www.jspr.co.uk
