With the range of bespoke vehicles available it can be overwhelming when it comes to choosing the right vehicle for your fleet. There’s a lot to think about, from MPVs and CDVs, to short and long wheel bases, not to mention what make and model!

So before your head bursts with options, we’ve put together a few tips for when you’re choosing a vehicle, to ensure that you make the right decision for your company.

Vehicle efficiency
This should be at the top of your priority list when choosing a vehicle. Although you can take extra measures to reduce your fuel expenditure, deciding on the right model and make is a significant factor.

The fuel type that you choose is vital and we advise to take your time in this area. The type you choose will have a direct impact on running costs of your fleet in the long-term.

Usually, petrol vehicles are much better for shorter journeys, whilst diesel vehicles tend to be more cost efficient for longer journeys. However, with the recent increasing environmental concerns and developments, distinctions such as this aren’t exactly easy.

You could also look into other alternatives such as, biodiesel, electric and hybrid vehicles.

Vehicle usage
With experience in the industry and communication with your drivers/employees, you’ll have a pretty good picture of vehicle usage.
Other things you need to take into account are:

• Fuel type
• Annual mileage
• The type of journeys that will be taken
• Terrain
• Journey frequency and length

Will it be going up and down the motorway? Will it be suitable for urban areas and cities? It’s essential to ask yourself questions such as these to make sure nothing is overlooked.

Mileage can also have an influence on what type of financial agreement to choose; leasing or contract hire? If you don’t take mileage into account and go over, you could be looking at hefty fines or penalties.

Price
One of the main points to consider when choosing a corporate vehicle is the cost. Working out your budget will narrow down your choice considerably, however, you need to ensure that you’re not jeopardising quality for the sake of cheaper costs.

We advise to not let the price of the vehicle influence your decision completely. Remember, making the wrong decision could potentially mean paying more further down the road.

Other long-term considerations
Although the initial price tag of the vehicle is important to consider, you also need to think about the long-term.

The following factors could have a significant impact on you financially, which you may not think about at the beginning:

• Insurance
  Your insurance could leave you with additional costs and is commonly the most expensive aspect of running a vehicle. Ensuring that your fleet vehicles are stored safely, plus keeping them maintained will help.
• Maintenance
  As well as insurance, maintaining your vehicle will affect you financially. You need to take into account the costs of MOTs, tyre replacements, repair etc. It’s advisable to look into maintenance packages, which can often be a cheaper option.

Reflect corporate values
Clearly the most exciting part of looking for an addition to your fleet – the aesthetics of the vehicle! Although we don’t want to take the enjoyment out of this part of the process, remember to keep in mind that your fleet of vehicles are representatives of you on the road.

You need to ensure that the vehicle communicates your corporate values and represents you in the best light. Taking all of the other aspects into mind, it’s definitely worth going for a model and make that reflects your company’s image.

At Fourways Vehicle Solutions we have a vast range of vehicles available and our experts can offer thorough advice on all of the vehicles that we provide. Feel free to get in touch!