Supply chain management company Fleet Assist says the number of service outlets in its nationwide network, with the technical competency to handle plug-in vehicles, has reached almost 100%.
Virtually all of the 4,500 franchise garages in the Fleet Assist network, which provides fleet SMR services, now have the capability and technical knowledge to maintain hybrid and plug-in vehicles, alongside more than 400 independent outlets, which equates to approximately 80% of the network.
The firm says it will continue to review and expand the number of franchise and independent service outlets in its network, with suitably trained technicians alongside the required diagnostic equipment.
Fleet Assist head of network and technical services Chris Crow said: “As vehicle technology evolves so do the requirements of an aftersales network and how it delivers solutions to ensure costs are controlled, whilst vehicle downtime is kept to a minimum.
“Government initiatives amplify the pressure on fleet decision-makers and company car and van drivers, to select ultra-low emission vehicles. In the vanguard of that development are fleet companies supplying hybrid, plug-in or pure electric vehicles.
“That presents fleet companies with new challenges in ensuring their network of repairer garages – whether franchise or independent – are appropriately equipped, and have sufficient suitably trained mechanics to safely maintain and carry out repairs on such vehicles as fleet volumes grow.
“Therefore, it is essential that Fleet Assist continues to proactively manage its network, and ensure it evolves and remains fit-for-purpose to the total satisfaction of customers in a rapidly developing new car and van market.”
