And now the charity is calling for the government to put a stop to these cuts, warning that more drivers will think they can ‘get away’ with illegal drunk or drugged driving.

There are five deaths and 65 serious injuries on UK roads every day and Brake says many deaths and injuries result from criminal behaviour, and all from man-made and preventable circumstances.

Last week the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) released results from its Christmas breath-testing campaign, showing the importance of roads policing in protecting the public. In December, England and Wales forces breath-tested nearly 157,000 drivers, with 5% testing positive. However, this was an 8% fall on breath tests carried out in the same period in 2010

Julie Townsend, Brake’s deputy chief executive, said: "It is crucial the government acts now to put a stop to these dramatic cuts in life-saving roads policing, by making this a national policing priority. This is crucial in safeguarding the public and preventing needless casualties that lead to terrible suffering, and it also makes economic sense. Road crashes constitute a huge social and economic burden, because of the awful implications for those bereaved and injured, and the strain on health and emergency services. Investing in roads policing, and stepping up critical checks like breath-testing, helps stop crashes before they happen, meaning less families suffering and reduced costs to the taxpayer."

Alan Jones, Chairman of the Roads Policing Group, Police Federation England & Wales, said: "I am not surprised at the findings announced in this report. Policing the roads should be a priority for government and Chief Constables: this is nothing less than the public expect. As police forces try to deal with a staggering 20% budget cut, their resources and capabilities are being stretched to a point where delivery of service is difficult to sustain. We all know the consequences of drivers who fail to heed the rules of the road or drive with complete disregard for others. The cost of cutting back far outweighs the benefits of investing in protecting a key front line service."

All fleet bosses are being encouraged can participate in the brief poll by visiting ACFO’s website, regardless of whether they are members of the association or not.

ACFO’s Julie Jenner hoped that the survey would highlight how salary sacrifice schemes affect the British car market and how many fleets and vehicles are currently operating under some form of salary sacrifice arrangement.

“There has been a great deal of talk and media coverage of salary sacrifice schemes as a major development in the UK fleet market,” commented the ACFO Chair.

“Most fleet management service providers now offer some forms of these schemes, which rely on the differential tax and National Insurance contribution treatments of ‘cash’ and ‘benefits’.

“What is much less clear is the actual impact these schemes have had – or are likely to have – on the shape and size of the UK market.

“There are as yet no clear definitions for market analysis or tax base, so there is no picture of just how far these schemes have changed the market. ACFO, therefore, is seeking to measure these aspects.”

The survey’s results will be used to shape the ACFO’s submission ahead of the Budget announcement on 21 March.

Click here to take the short survey.

Expected to take place at Ford of Britain’s Brentwood HQ on Thursday 1 March, the seminar will feature speakers from Transport for London, the Institute of Travel Management and the Freight Transport Association – organisations that have been key to the Games’ preparations.

With 800,000 spectators and 55,000 athletes, officials, organisers and members of the media expected every day during the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (29 August – 9 September), the UK’s transport network will be subject to intense pressure, and all fleets – regardless of where they’re based – have been encouraged to prepare and adapt travel arrangements well ahead of the opening ceremony.

Manic

ACFO Chair Julie Jenner [pictured left] believes that the seminar will help the association’s members ensure that business runs as smoothly as possible during what is guaranteed to be a manic summer.

“Doing nothing is not an option,” she commented. “Although London is the focal point of the Games, there are events taking place in many other towns and cities.

“Organisations may be located many miles from London, but they would be wrong to think that the Games will not impact on them.

“The seminar will provide ACFO members with an opportunity to have many questions answered from experts and gain first hand best practice advice to ensure their employers are in the best condition to continue to perform as efficiently and effectively as possible during what promises to be an exciting period in the country’s history.”

Places are still available for the Olympic seminar on 1 March (10.15am – 3.30pm) at Ford of Britain’s Brentwood HQ.

Email info@acfo.org for more info.

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ABD comment on the use of 3D scanners
Our first story is from the ABD, who have made comment on the use of 3D scanners at the scene of serious road traffic accidents (RTAs).

The organisation have applauded the government for implementing this technology to avoid the 10 hours plus tailbacks, that have become the norm in recent times, following the police’s preference to treat all serious accidents as crime scenes.

They are now calling for the ‘Road Death Investigation Manual’ produced back in 2007 by the police to be rewritten, pointing out that only a minority are due to a crime being committed. They also point out the seriousness of vehicles diverting onto unsuitable routes in an attempt to avoid delays being a real safety hazard, as well as the inconvenience of missed appointments being another knock-on effect.

They have called for RTAs to be treated in the same way as air traffic accidents (ATAs) with the emphasis on establishing the cause of the accident rather than apportioning blame.

Do you agree that this is the way forward? Are you confident that a desire to keep traffic moving should in no way mean a crime may go undetected or evidence of one be missed? Let us know your views using the comments box below.

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Kwik-Fit support Tim Hudson’s recent statement
Kwik-Fit were delighted by the vice chairman of the National Association of Motor Auctions, Tim Hudson’s recent statement that the importance of a franchised dealer stamp being critical in the resale value of vehicles has greatly diminished, as he pointed out: “What is essential is that company cars and vans have a documented service history across their fleet life to ensure top residual values are potentially achievable.”

Although an increasing number of fleets, contract hire and leasing companies are turning to the independent sector for servicing and MoT requirements some operators remain nervous of not taking vehicles to a franchise dealer, fearing this could have detrimental repercussions on the future value of their assets.

Kwik-fit expect to see the current 35% year-on-year rise of company-owned vehicles taken to their centres rising further after these welcomed words.

“Confirmation from an independent authority such as Tim Hudson of the National Association of Motor Auctions will give more fleets and leasing companies the confidence to have their vehicles serviced at Kwik-Fit centres in the knowledge that residual values will not be damaged,” commented Kwik-Fit Fleet sales director Peter Lambert.

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ACFO honour Tony Leigh
The ACFO have honoured one of their longest standing members with an honorary life membership. Tony Leigh is, after twenty-five years service, stepping down as ACFO company secretary in order to let new blood into the organisation.

“I believe now is the right time to step down and to let younger fleet decision-makers become more involved with ACFO. In more than a quarter of a century of involvement with ACFO I have seen the organisation change and grow so that it now deservedly is the premier organisation for fleet operators. I wish the organisation every success in the future,” said Mr Leigh.

“Tony has been a tremendous servant to ACFO for more than a quarter of a century. His in-depth fleet knowledge and experience has been hugely beneficial to ACFO as a whole and many members,” added Julie Jenner, who took over from Mr Leigh as ACFO chairman in 2006.

Although retiring from ACFO, Mr Leigh, continues in his job as head of car fleet services at PricewaterhouseCoopers and will have his lifetime membership confirmed at the organisations 2012 AGM. Meanwhile, the ACFO board is currently considering the appointment of a new company secretary, and will announce its intentions early in the New Year.

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Leasedrive win furniture supplier contract
Leasedrive have won a five-year sole supplier contract from furniture supplier Harveys, who previously opted to use several suppliers and brokers for its fleet needs.

"An existing customer of our rental management division, we were doubly delighted to win the tender process for Harveys’ contract hire business. We have also provided financial modelling to determine the optimum financial funding route and are providing a duty of care service for cash allowance drivers," commented Roddy Graham, commercial director at Leasedrive.

Leasedrive will supply around 140 contract hire vehicles to Harveys, who are owned by the Steinhoff UK retail group.

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Ogilvie Group hope to continue strong performance in 2012
Ogilvie Fleet have reported a strong performance through 2011 and are looking forward to the same this year, having increased its UK fleet to over 10,000 vehicles. Owned by the Stirling based Ogilvie Group, which achieved a seven per cent increase in turnover in 2010, Ogilvie Fleet have plans to continue to strengthen its place in this sector.

“We have continued to maintain a solid performance in what are difficult economic conditions and expect that consistency to continue into the coming year," commented Duncan Ogilvie, Chief Executive, Ogilvie Group.

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Brake call on the government to address rising drug-driving problem
Brake, together with Direct Line, are calling on the government to act now and push through proposals on addressing the rising problem of drug driving.

A survey by Brake and Direct Line found that three per cent of young drivers (age 17-24) regularly drive after taking drugs, often once a month or more. It also revealed that one in nine young drivers, eleven per cent, has driven on illegal drugs in the past year.

Brake, together with the family of Lillian Groves, a young girl who was only 14 years old when she was killed by a driver who had been smoking cannabis are calling for long-needed reform, including:

1. A new law making it an offence to drive while on illegal drugs, to rectify the current loophole. Currently it is only an offence to drive while impaired by drugs, meaning police must prove impairment to prosecute;
2. Approval and roll-out of roadside drug screening devices, so police can test for drugs at the roadside and immediately following a crash.

"The risks of driving on drugs are huge, and the consequences devastating – yet a huge proportion of young drivers are taking this appalling gamble with their own and others’ lives. We need all drivers to pledge to never mix drugs and driving, and we need the government to follow through with its commitment to tackle this problem. For too long the law on drug driving has been totally inadequate. We need a ban on driving with illegal drugs in your system, and we need roadside drugalysers. The longer this takes, the more lives will be violently and tragically lost," commented Ellen Booth, Brake senior campaigns officer.

Staying with Brake, they will be hosting their 10th annual Fleet Safety Forum Awards in June 2012 and are inviting entries, the deadline of which is March 16, this year, and which can now be made online.

The evening, which will be held at the MacDonald Burlington Hotel, Birmingham, includes a drinks reception, 3-course dinner with wine, casino, disco and entertainment and is an important networking event in the fleet calendar.

Brake make no entry charge but do require any company entering to book at least one seat at the gala dinner and awards ceremony.

To book places for the event, click here to access the online form or contact Brake on 01484 559909 or by emailing admin@brake.org.uk.

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IAM concern over young male driver overconfidence
A report from IAM worryingly shows that sixty-two per cent of male novice drivers feel they possess greater driving skills than average, with only thirty-two per cent of female novice drivers saying the same.

The report entitled ‘The fast and the curious: young people’s attitudes to driver training’, also highlights that real incentives such as reduced insurance premiums are required to attract these drivers to taking further training.

“Young male drivers suffer from a lethal combination of overconfidence and inexperience. They don’t need curfews and other restrictions on their driving; they need to practice and gain driving experience safely. There are many paying thousands of pounds a year in insurance and killing themselves. The solution to this problem is to link driver training and insurance discounts," commented IAM chief executive Simon Best.

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And finally, staying with the IAM…

Have you made your new years resolutions yet? Road safety charity the IAM, chief examiner and Britain’s top advanced driver, Peter Rodger is this week offering his top new year driving resolution tips.

Rodger said: “The new year is a common time for people to sit back, reflect and revaluate. Why not begin by making changes to your driving to make you safer on the road in 2012?”

1. Look out: Keep an eye on the road ahead including pavements to give yourself more time to identify and respond to hazards;
2. Anticipate what the traffic around you may do especially at traffic lights, roundabouts and junctions;
3. Room: Make sure you keep space around your vehicle to leave you more time to deal with hazards;
4. Refuel: When embarking on longer journeys, take a break every two hours;
5. Mirror-effect: Use all your mirrors regularly so that you have 360 degree awareness of what is going on around you;
6. Don’t presume: Never assume that another motorist has seen you or will react in the same way you might;
7. Learn: Be open minded and realistic about your limitations and always be prepared to learn from any errors you make.

Don’t forget to visit the IAM website, www.drivingadvice.org.uk, to get up-to-date traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on how to drive safely in winter.

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So that’s the first News Round-up of 2012 and we hope you have found it as stimulating and informative as the previous year’s offerings. We’re looking forward to a whole year of news ahead and sharing the best of all things fleet related with you. Don’t forget, we also want to hear from you and your views on the stories featured above so we hope you’ll take a minute to use our comments box below. Until next week drive carefully and tally-ho 2012!

One-time ACFO Chairman Leigh has been with the group since the mid-80s and said the time was right to step down and make way for younger fleet decision-makers.

“In more than a quarter of a century of involvement with ACFO, I have seen the organisation change and grow so that it now deservedly is the premier organisation for fleet operator,” commented Mr Leigh.

“I wish the organisation every success in the future.”

A board director between 1993 and 2006, Tony was praised as “a tremendous servant” by current Chair Julie Jenner.

She added: “His in-depth fleet knowledge and experience has been hugely beneficial to ACFO as a whole and many members.

“We will recognise Tony’s ACFO service and the work he has undertaken on behalf of the organisation by conferring on him honorary life membership at the 2012 AGM.”

Valuable

ACFO membership secretary Stewart Whyte, who stood down as a director of ACFO last September, described Tony as “a powerful guiding light for ACFO and the whole fleet industry”.

Mr Whyte credited Leigh for helping raise ACFO to its current position of prominence adding: “His experience in fleet management has been valuable in focusing the membership to explore and embrace best practice in all areas.

“As director, chairman and company secretary, Tony has given a great deal to ACFO over the years. I am sure all members, old and new, will wish him well.”

Tony Leigh is still Head of Car Fleet Services at PricewaterhouseCoopers and a new company secretary is expected to be announced in the coming months.

With 2012 just around the corner ACFO have been looking towards the new year and what it will mean for many fleets. They envisage a marked increase in company car demand as opposed to cash allowance schemes, with BIK tax thresholds set to tighten at the beginning of the next financial year.

“Evidence suggests that with personal budgets being squeezed due to the global economic crisis, drivers are firmly focused on how much tax they are paying and their disposable income. Although almost every driver will see their company car tax bill rise from April 6, 2012, analysis reveals that it is significantly cheaper to pay tax on a company car than to run your own vehicle.," commented ACFO chairman Julie Jenner.

Recent research by the RAC has put the average annual cost of owning and running a car at £6,700, at a rise of 14 per cent in the past twelve months, which is three times the current rate of inflation.

“Employees cannot run their own cars for that amount of money. Although company car benefit-in-kind tax rates will increase for 2012/13, drivers and employers alike should do their own calculations and they will realise that through the careful selection of low emission vehicles, a company car is the financially astute choice in these austere economic times. Economic conditions mean that all employees are much more focused on the cost of living. If cash allowance drivers calculate the cost of funding and running their own vehicle, including service and maintenance bills, they will be pleasantly surprised to discover that they can be better off by opting back into a company car,” added Ms Jenner.

The ACFO also predicts that 2012 will be the year of the electric fleet, with the arrival of the plug-in hybrid such as the Toyota Prius and Volvo V6, together with the extended range models of the Vauxhall Ampera and Chevrolet Volt.

“Pure electric vehicles may be suitable for some urban, low mileage fleets, but for the vast majority of businesses they are not viable on a number of counts including operating costs, residual value uncertainty, range and the lack of a viable recharging infrastructure. However, the imminent arrival of plug-in hybrids and vehicles equipped with range extenders make the electric option a more realistic alternative for many fleets as some of the concerns, particularly around driving range and recharging, are overcome," continued Ms Jenner. 

Despite the imminent availability of such vehicles current tax incentives for EVs have only been set until the March 31, 2012 with a review due early in the new year. The Government has so far made no announcement of any possible funding to aid the acquisition of this new breed of EVs through the Plug-In grant scheme.

“The Government has a clear carbon-cutting agenda but in announcing future benefit-in-kind tax levels for petrol and diesel powered models as well as the new breed of electric alternatives, the tax structure must not run ahead of technology. Company car drivers and businesses require a vehicle choice and if choice is restricted and tax bills become too punitive, the Government risks driving employees into cash alternatives. That is accompanied by inherent risks ranging from reduced revenue flowing into Government coffers to drivers selecting older cars with higher emissions and fewer safety features than if they had stayed in company car schemes.”

Continuing on the theme of the Plug-in Grant Scheme she said: “An initial £43 million pot was set aside to fund electric car acquisition, but demand has been so low that only around 1,000 vehicles have been bought. However, that should not put the Government off continuing to fund the scheme.”

Ms Jenner’s final comments related to the Government’s Autumn Statement decision not to cut fuel duty immediately: “Fuel prices at current levels are simply unsustainable. We hope fuel prices will fall in the New Year and that will have a positive impact on the economy and cash flow for businesses and private motorists alike. However, if there is no respite then the Government must look again at its fuel duty strategy in the spring Budget. We are very mindful that in the Autumn Statement the Government did not cut duty but merely dropped a January 2012 increase and reduced the planned August rise from 5p a litre to 3p a litre – pump prices need to fall.”

The ACFO this week met with HM Treasury and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) officials and repeated their request for a full analysis of the current Approved Mileage Allowance Payments (AMAP) system as part of an in-depth review of present financial models, having made their first request some eight years ago.

The current AMAP rate for employees who use their own cars or vans for business mileage increased on April 6 2011 to 45p from 40p for the first 10,000 miles driven with the rate of 25p per mile thereafter remaining unchanged.

ACFO argue that the current 45p (and previous 40p) per mile reimbursement for the first 10,000 miles and 25p a mile thereafter is over-generous for higher-mileage cases, working against the Government’s goal of discouraging unnecessary mileage and this has also helped persuade some employees to opt out of company car schemes over the years.

“The current AMAP structure was established almost a decade ago and since then the only change has been the 5p a mile increase in reimbursement rate to 45p. ACFO has always held the view that the 10,000 mile threshold provides a significant incentive for many employees to drive completely unnecessary distances, because they can generate significant expense claims tax-free. That is even more likely to be the case given today’s economic climate with personal and household budgets being squeezed. We would like Government officials to carry out a robust computer modelling exercise that delivers a more subtle approach to mileage reimbursement instead of the current two-band, single mileage threshold system. Feedback from the ACFO membership clearly indicates that the ‘broad brush’ approach taken by Government is not working. We therefore took the opportunity at our meeting to request that an analysis is undertaken and we will continue to put forward the case for consistent and fairer treatment of AMAP rates.
“We enjoy an excellent working relationship with HMRC and Treasury and we are optimistic following the meeting that their financial experts will address our views," said ACFO chairman Julie Jenner.

Do you agree with ACFO? Would you also like to see a change in the current AMAP system or do you feel that this should be left as it is? We would like to hear your comments.

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After last week’s announcement from road safety minister Mike Penning that learner drivers will be able to take to the motorways with a qualified instructor has prompted the following response from Brake:

“It’s positive the government is looking at measures to reduce risk and develop skills among newly licensed drivers. Young drivers are involved in a huge proportion of crashes that kill and seriously injure because of their inexperience coupled with the tendency of many to take risks. However, simply allowing learners to take instruction on motorways doesn’t go far enough. To reduce the devastating crashes and casualties that involve young drivers, we recommend wider reform of our learning to drive system, including a minimum learning period and restrictions for novice drivers, to protect them from the most dangerous situations. This approach of ‘graduated driver licensing’ has worked in other countries and there is evidence it would dramatically reduce casualties in the UK too,” said Julie Townsend, Brake campaigns.

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Britain’s top advanced driver, Peter Rodger, is offering his top tips courtesy of IAM for motorists to cope with the current windy weather, with further gales predicted this week:

1. Plan your journey – is there a route with less exposure to the weather and less risk of fallen trees? Choose a sheltered route if you have the option;
2. Strong winds are not constant, they are usually gusty so ensure you hold the steering wheel firmly;
3. Overtaking high sided vehicles or driving past buildings can result in a sudden gust from the side as you clear;
4. Give cyclists, motorcyclists, lorries and buses more room than usual. They get blown around by side winds easily;
5. Watch trees and bushes on the roadside – their branches show you how strong the wind is. Look well ahead, that way you don’t need to take your eye off the road and you can see any windy patches before you get to them;
6. Go slow enough to cope with the gusts. Wind can get under a car and reduce its handling and braking significantly;
7. Keep an eye on what is happening to other vehicles – where they are affected will give you a pre warning;
8. Keep extra distance between you and the car in front;
9. Be careful of debris, try and have space beside you in case you need to dodge it.

Rodger said: “I have seen a parked car moved by the wind. Don’t underestimate how powerful it is and how it can affect you whilst in the car.”

Don’t forget you can visit IAM’s website drivingadvice.org.uk, to get all your traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on how to drive safely in winter.

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And finally…

How many female gym staff and members does is take to fill a mini? Well according to the Guinness Book of World Records that number has recently been set at 27, thanks to the amazing fundraising efforts at David Lloyd Leisure’s Eastbourne club.

The new record was achieved after five weeks of training and rehearsing, which included stretching exercises, building people pyramids and hula-hoop challenges and has raised £1,778 for Children in Need, braking the previous record of 26 people held by a New York dance club.

Club DL Kids coordinator and swimming coach, Dani Maynard, who organised the event, said: “We didn’t think we could do it and it was so uncomfortable at the end. We’re absolutely delighted that our efforts paid off and we can now call ourselves world record breakers! What makes this even more amazing is that unlike previous holders, who were dancers and cheerleaders, we are real women of all shapes and sizes.”

David Lloyd Eastbourne general manager Ben Underwood added: “This was no mean feat, what Dani and her group achieved is truly incredible. I am also delighted that their efforts raised so much money for such a good cause.”

Gives a new meaning to needing to stretch your legs after being in a car! Our congratulations go to all of those who helped with bring this record home across the pond for such a worthy cause!

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So that’s it for another seven days. We here at Fleet Directory are off to do some serious Hoola Hoop training of our own, I reckon I can do three packets in a row so long as I stay away from the prawn cocktail… Remember to be safe on the roads, plan ahead for your journeys and ensure you have your emergency packs ready in your vehicles. Also we’d like to hear your views on the featured stories using the comments box below. Until next week…

Eight years after its initial request, the Association of Car Fleet Operators (ACFO) has once again called on Government officials to reassess the Approved Mileage Allowance Payments (AMAP) system which determines the structure and rates that can be paid tax-free to employees who drive their own cars on company business.

The AMAP rate for employees who use their own cars or vans for business mileage was upped by 5p to 45p for the first 10,000 miles in April this year. The rate above 10,000 miles remains 25p per mile, a rate that is “over-generous” that contradicts the Government’s stance on discouraging unnecessary mileage in ACFO’s view.

Budgets being squeezed

Pump prices were nearly half their current level when the system was launched in 2002 (a litre of unleaded petrol costs 75.8p or 77.3p for diesel), and ACFO Chair Julie Jenner [pictured left] believes it is time for mileage rates to reflect the current economic state.

She commented: “ACFO has always held the view that the 10,000 mile threshold provides a significant incentive for many employees to drive completely unnecessary distances, because they can generate significant expense claims tax-free.

“That is even more likely to be the case given today’s economic climate with personal and household budgets being squeezed.

“We would like Government officials to carry out a robust computer modelling exercise that delivers a more subtle approach to mileage reimbursement instead of the current two-band, single mileage threshold system.”

The ACFO Chair added that it is the view of the group’s members that the ‘broad brush’ approach taken by Government is not working.

Julie concluded: “We therefore took the opportunity at our meeting [with officials from HM Treasury and HMRC] to request that an analysis is undertaken and we will continue to put forward the case for consistent and fairer treatment of AMAP rates.

“We enjoy an excellent working relationship with HMRC and Treasury and we are optimistic following the meeting that their financial experts will address our views.”

The Association of Car Fleet Operators (ACFO) has met with with officials from HM Treasury and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to request the 3% diesel company car benefit-in-kind tax surcharge, is scrapped. At the same time they renewed their request for a five year advance notice period for future company car benefit-in-kind tax rates.

ACFO chairman Julie Jenner said: “There are no valid reasons for today’s diesel models to carry a 3% company car benefit-in-kind supplement. It was introduced almost a decade ago for reasons than no longer exist. Personal budgets are being squeezed, and evidence suggests that average company car mileage is reducing. If drivers can save money by selecting a petrol-engined model in comparison with a diesel car they will make that choice. Ultimately, the Government’s decision to retain the 3% supplement may prove to be counter productive and the tax-take will reduce.”

ACFO listed a number of reasons the 3% surcharge should be abolished, a tax they say is totally unjustifiable:

1. The additional tax was levied because in 2002 diesel cars were regarded as significant polluters. However, today’s models have CO2 emissions below those of their petrol-engined equivalents;
2. The fuel efficiency of some of today’s petrol-engined models have improved significantly and, coupled with the price premium of diesel cars over petrol equivalents and the widening price differential between petrol and diesel at the pumps the advantages of diesel – even with a tax penalty – are being wiped out;
3. Forthcoming Euro 6 emissions standards – due to be introduced on September 1, 2014 for new models, and from January 1, 2015 for the registration and sale of new types of cars – could add ‘several’ hundred pounds’ to the price of diesel cars to ensure compliance.

Whilst in the past the Government have given three years notice of company car benefit-in-kind tax thresholds, this has now slipped to two years in the past 18-months under coalition rule. The request for a five years notice was first requested by ACFO in the spring of this year and was repeated during this recent meeting.

Ms Jenner added: “Many employees have their company cars replaced on a four-year cycle so they remain in the dark as to what their benefit-in-kind tax burden will be in the third and fourth year. We had success with calling for three years advance notification and with some fleets adopting longer vehicle replacement cycles, we will continue to push for five years in our talks with Government officials.”

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IAM responded this week to Road safety minister Mike Penning’s announced that learner drivers will from next year will be allowed to have driving lessons on motorways in a bid to cut the death toll among novice motorists.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “This change will mean that properly supervised young drivers can learn how to drive on a motorway with somebody beside them. Motorways are, after all, our safest roads. As part of the changes to the test, we would also like to see more training for learners on rural roads – our most dangerous roads.”
IAM’s latest report ‘The fast and the curious: young people’s attitudes to driver training’ worryingly shows that sixty-two per cent of young male novice drivers think they are more skilful than the average driver.

IAM chief executive Simon Best, said: “Young male drivers suffer from a lethal combination of overconfidence and inexperience. They don’t need curfews and other restrictions on their driving; they need to practice and gain driving experience safely. There are many paying thousands of pounds a year in insurance and killing themselves. The solution to this problem is to link driver training and insurance discounts. But this training needs to be done early. Fewer miles driven since passing the practical driving test and fewer attempts to pass the practical driving test (more likely to be a first time passer) make drivers more likely to be positive about further training.”

What are your views on this subject? Do you believe lower insurance for novice drivers will result in them undertaking more training voluntarily? And do you believe that these changes to our existing learner system, where drivers who have not yet passed their test will be allowed to take lessons on motorways is a good idea? We would love to hear your views.

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Staying with IAM and Peter Rodger, IAM’s Chief Examiner has issued some sage advice on driving in snow and ice, and freezing conditions, which are currently spreading across the country.

“Avoid travelling unless completely necessary, and don’t ignore police warnings or advice to not travel on specific routes. Can you work remotely, or change your schedule?” he says.

When travel in unavoidable these following top tips will help keep you safe during this month’s inclement weather:

1. Make sure your windows are clear and that you have all-round visibility before you set off. Also take the time to clear snow off the roof of your car;
2. When driving in snow, get your speed right – not too fast that you risk losing control, but not so slow that you risk losing momentum when you need it;
3. Start gently from stationary, avoiding high revs. Stay in a higher gear for better control, and if it is slippery, in a manual car move off in a higher gear, rather than just using first;
4. If you get yourself into a skid the main thing to remember is to take your foot off the pedals and steer;
5. Only use the brake if you cannot steer out of trouble. Double or even triple your normal stopping distance from the vehicle in front so you are not relying on your brakes to be able to stop. It simply may not happen!;
6. It’s better to think ahead as you drive to keep moving, even if it is at walking pace;
7. Plan your journey around busier roads as they are more likely to have been gritted;
8. Avoid using short cuts on minor roads – they are less likely to be cleared or treated with salt, especially country lanes and housing areas;
9. Bends are a particular problem in slippery conditions – slow down before you get to the bend, so that by the time you turn the steering wheel you have already lost enough speed;
10. On a downhill slope get your speed low before you start the descent, and do not let it build up – it is much easier to keep it low than to try and slow down once things get slippery.

If the worst happens:

1. Keep track of where you are. If you do have to call for assistance, you need to be able to tell the breakdown or emergency services your location, so they can find you;
2. If you must leave your vehicle to telephone for assistance, find a safe place to stand away from the traffic flow. If you have just lost control the next driver could well do the same in the same place;
3. On motorways and dual carriageways it is always better to leave your vehicle and stand a short distance behind and to the safe side of it. Don’t stand in front of it if at all possible. Balancing the risks of a collision and hypothermia is something that depends on your situation.

Don’t forget that more advice on driving in the snow and other difficult seasonal weather can be found at the IAM’s website: www.drivingadvice.org,uk

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Leasedrive Group have released their predictions for the top ten trends for 2010, Commercial director, Roddy Graham says:

1. Fewer Large Players as Industry Consolidates Further – “Expect consolidation to continue with fewer players making up a more select league table.";
2. Asset Funding vs. Asset Management – “As the squeeze continues on financial institutions, set against a backdrop of the Eurozone debt crisis, expect further banks to question non-core activities and consider concentrating on what they do best. There’s a wide gap between asset funding and asset management which more banks are recognising – expect change!";
3. Cost ,’The War Cry’ – “Expect every cost line to be challenged and the winners will be those who do even more with less.”;
4. Olympic Transportation Nightmare – “Transport for London has spent an extra £6.5bn on improvements and line extensions but accepts delays are inevitable. Transport definitely appears a weak link and will affect the fleet industry.";
5. Tax Efficiencies = More Salary Sacrifice Schemes – "With salaries frozen or increases kept to a bare minimum, salary sacrifice could become more popular for hard-pressed employees wishing to see their money go further.”;
6. Company Cars vs. Cars-for-Cash – “Fuelled by a combination of factors; lower CO2 emissions, higher mpg, wider model choice, tougher car policies, a sensible Benefit-in-Kind regime and greater vehicle manufacturer incentives, the company car is back on the road again.”;
7. Electric Vehicle Charge Forward – "With more and more new electric vehicles coming on stream from vehicle manufacturers, expect EVs to start making their presence quietly felt, albeit unannounced to pedestrians and cyclists, in towns and cities.”;
8. Greater Pump Price Stability – “The FairFuelUK Campaign collected more than 100,000 signatures to secure a Parliamentary debate on scrapping the three pence per litre petrol duty increase in January and called for a fuel price stabiliser where taxes go up when oil prices fall and drop when oil prices go up. The FairFuelUK Campaign has had unprecedented success so far and expect it therefore to drive for more concessions from government.";
9. Lower Vehicle Rental Costs – "The word on the street is that one of the major rental companies has so upset its rivals that they have had enough and are determined to recover market share through aggressive pricing. A price war for market share would result in lower vehicle rental costs. The only question is how long the price war can continue before one of the major names cries wolf as profits become significantly impacted?”;
10. Proliferation of Fleet Management Outsourcing – “In a tough economic climate, businesses naturally wish to focus on core activities, those that they are expert at. Specialist vehicle management companies have the right people, the right expertise and the right technology to make things happen while their customers concentrate on their core functions.".

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Brake has a number of workshops, conferences and reviews planned for the beginning of 2012 and are taking bookings for places now:

• Workshop: Look sharp: eyesight and at work drivers
  Tuesday 24 January 2012, Bristol, UK: 12.30pm- 4pm
  Addressing the risk of poor driver eyesight is a crucial aspect of fleet safety policy and procedure. In this workshop delegates will hear from experts on the risks associated with driving and poor eyesight, and effective strategies to combat this risk such as comprehensive driver eyesight testing. A best practice case study will demonstrate how a company successfully implemented measures to tackle poor driver eyesight;
• Workshop: Reversing and blind spots
  Tuesday 7 February 2012, Leeds, UK, 12.30pm-4pm
  Addressing the risks associated with reversing vehicles and vehicle blind spots is an essential part of fleet safety policies and procedures. In this workshop, academic and practitioner speakers will look at current developments relating to these critical issues, including technological solutions such as vehicle-side cameras and additional mirrors, as well as measures such as driver training techniques. The workshop includes a vehicle demonstration of technological solutions and a demonstration of a driver education programme to raise awareness of how cyclists can be hidden in blind spots. In addition, a leading fleet manager will present a case study of how they have implemented some of these techniques successfully;
• Conference: Best of best the 9th annual Fleet Safety Forum conference
  Tuesday 28 February 2012, Cranmore Park, Birmingham
  Hear good practice case studies from winners of Fleet Safety Forum Awards and discuss developments in policy, fleet and road safety research, and technology;
• WebEx: Managing road risk: back to basics
  Wednesday 28 March 2012.
  Reviewing your fleet safety policies and procedures and making the business case for fleet safety to the board.

For more details or to book onto any of these events contact Brake on 01484 559909, www.brake.org.uk or admin@brake.org.uk

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And finally…

Paragon Group has announced it is to extend its existing support of Junior World Champion and Olympic hopeful, John Paul, throughout 2012.

One of the UK’s most promising track sprint cyclists, John Paul has recently been accepted into the Great British Olympic Academy for track sprint, a programme for Olympic hopeful athletes.

Neil Burrows, Group Sales & Marketing Director, Paragon said: “We are extremely proud to continue supporting John Paul in the run up to the 2012 Olympics. John Paul’s achievements this year prove he has the potential to be selected to compete for Great Britain in London 2012 and ultimately bring home the medals.”

John was accepted on to the British Cycling Olympic Talent Team programme in 2007 before progressing to the Olympic Development Programme for track sprint in 2009 and the Great Britain Olympic Academy last month.

John Paul said: “I am delighted that Paragon is continuing to support in 2012. I covered approximately 30,000 miles in the UK last year travelling to and from races and the continued support will certainly enable me to continue to do this. I am grateful for the support show by Paragon and for recognising my potential, which has certainly increased by confidence and enabled me to concentrate on achieving my dream of becoming an Olympic champion.”

We here at Fleet Directory wish John Paul every success in his training and bid for Olympic glory.

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And so that is it for another seven days. We hope you have found our weekly round-up convenient and informative and we look forward to bringing you all the best news in one place once again next week. Don’t forget to share your views on any of the above stories in our comments box below. Until then, drive safely and considerately, not only because of current weather conditions, but for fellow drivers who may be still be relatively new to the road…

At a recent face-to-face meeting between members of ACFO and officials from HM Treasury and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the organisation also pressed home the case for a five years advance notice of benefit-in-kind tax rates to be introduced.

Since April 2002 company car benefit-in-kind tax has been based on a car’s list price and official CO2 emission figure. However, a 3% supplement up to the maximum charge of 35% has been levied on diesel cars, although it was waived for models first registered before the end of 2005 that met the European Commission Euro 4 standard.

ACFO have outlined a number of reasons why the surcharge should be abolished, including:

• In 2002 diesel cars were seen to be higher polluters than petrol cars. However many diesel cars today have lower CO2 emissions than their petrol equivalent.
• The improvement in fuel efficiency of petrol-powered models has improved significantly and, coupled with the price premium of diesel cars over petrol equivalents and the widening price differential between petrol and diesel at the pumps the advantages of diesel – even with a tax penalty – are being wiped out.
• Forthcoming Euro 6 emissions standards – due to be introduced on September 1, 2014 for new models, and from January 1, 2015 for the registration and sale of new types of cars – could add ‘several’ hundred pounds’ to the price of diesel cars to ensure compliance.

ACFO chairman Julie Jenner said: “There are no valid reasons for today’s diesel models to carry a 3% company car benefit-in-kind supplement. It was introduced almost a decade ago for reasons than no longer exist.

“The tax system must reflect today’s vehicle technology and be fair and neutral irrespective of powertrain type. If the Government retains the 3% tax burden then it could see an increasing number of company car drivers opting for petrol-engined models with their improving MPG and lower list prices.

“Personal budgets are being squeezed, and evidence suggests that average company car mileage is reducing. If drivers can save money by selecting a petrol-engined model in comparison with a diesel car they will make that choice. Ultimately, the Government’s decision to retain the 3% supplement may prove to be counter productive and the tax-take will reduce.”

Meanwhile, the Government historically gave three years notice of company car benefit-in-kind tax thresholds, but that has slipped to just two years with the coalition Government.

In the spring Budget, George Osborne confirmed company car benefit-in-kind tax rates through to 2013-14 prompting ACFO to issue a call in the spring for five years advance notification with vehicle replacement cycles extending.

That request was repeated at the recent meeting with Ms Jenner saying: “Many employees have their company cars replaced on a four-year cycle so they remain in the dark as to what their benefit-in-kind tax burden will be in the third and fourth year.

“We had success with calling for three years advance notification and with some fleets adopting longer vehicle replacement cycles, we will continue to push for five years in our talks with Government officials.”

Following this week’s statement from the Chancellor of the Exchequer, ACFO chairman Julie Jenner made the organisations feelings quite clear on more than one point.

On the matter of fuel duty Jenner stated, “The intensive business and consumer lobby against fuel duty increases when corporate and private budgets are under so much pressure meant the Chancellor had no choice but to cancel the January increase.

“By cutting the proposed August 2012 duty increase to 3p a litre from 5p a litre I think he has tried to appease the protests but has also brought himself time to see how the economy is performing in eight months. We are sure he will look again at fuel duty in the spring Budget.

“However, while we are pleased that the Chancellor will not press ahead with the 3p a litre January increase, fleets, business drivers and private motorists are no better off. Fuel prices remain extremely high so it would have been more helpful if he had relieved pressure on business and private fuel budgets by cutting duty.”

Jenner continued on to the subject of road building, stating: “Successive Governments have severely under invested in the nation’s road network. Although the Government collects more than £40 billion a year in motoring-related taxes less than a quarter of that cash is reinvested in roads and other transport schemes.

“Congestion costs businesses money, but the promised projects will take years and years to come to fruition. While we welcome the infrastructure investment, it is long over due.
“However, while few will oppose plans to ‘get Britain moving’, all drivers must continue to put up with continuing congestion on roads across the country for a long time to come. As a result, congestion will cost businesses money in delayed appointments and meetings and the late delivery of goods.”

Under-investment of road building has also been high on the agenda for ABD this week who have highlighted the ‘Cook Report’ as containing Trojan horses, hidden amongst possible useful suggestions to tackle this problem. It accuses the writer of the report of having a ‘Euro Vision’ to put a toll system in to place to pay for new major roads and possibly extend this to cover all local roads.

ABD chairman Brian Gregory commented: "The report’s author seems to have a short memory. It’s only a few years since nearly 2 million people signed the famous petition against national road pricing. The public is massively against it, but it seems that some people won’t listen.

"Britain’s drivers already pay through the nose – roughly £50 billion each year in taxes in return for about £8 billion in roads investment. Investment in relieving our congested roads has been paid for several times in advance. When families everywhere are feeling the pinch on motoring costs, there is absolutely no case for adding to our tax burden. The Transport Secretary, Justine Greening, says she will study the full report before commenting. These proposals are nothing less than ‘highway robbery’ and she must reject them outright."

Do you agree with ACFO’s and the ABD’s stance on road building? Is a purse of £8 billion per year too small? Or do we need to not look a Trojan gift horse in the mouth? We’d love to hear your views.

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Brake are getting into the festive season, but not how you might think. The road safety charity are calling on drivers to pledge to their ‘Not a drop, not a drag’ campaign and welcome the police crackdown on drink and drug drivers by new ACPO lead on road safety DCC Suzette Davenport.

Ellen Booth, Brake senior campaigns officer, explained: “We fully support this vital crackdown on deadly and selfish drink and drug drivers. Every Christmas, and indeed every week of the year, many families are confronted by the death of a loved one, or a terrible injury, caused by drivers wilfully taking these appalling risks. We urge drivers to imagine the consequences for a second and realise it’s never worth chancing your life and other people’s. Our simple message is not a drop, not a drag – please make a pledge to never drive on any amount of alcohol or drugs.”

Brake has revealed that this summer indicated a rise in drink driving, with the police reporting that more drivers were found over the limit compared to last year. That is why Brake also calling on the government to get tough on drink and drug driving by:

• Slashing the drink drive limit to 20mg alcohol/100 ml blood, in line with evidence that even very small amounts impair driving;
• Introducing police powers for random breath testing;
• Introducing roadside drugs testing and a law on driving on illegal drugs to make it easier to catch and prosecute drug drivers;
• Making roads policing a national policing priority, so resources are put into higher levels of roads policing to catch drink and drug drivers.

Visit ‘Not a drop, not a drag’ to find out more about Brake’s campaign.

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The IAM is also leading a campaign on festive drinkers with a call for drink driving warning on all labels of alcoholic drinks.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “Drink driving is an epidemic on our roads. Every one of 2009’s drink-driving incidents was preventable. That 380 people died in crashes that year, simply because they didn’t heed the warnings and the law, is tragic.

“We want to see clear drink driving warnings that are just as hard hitting as health warnings on cigarette labels. If the drinks industry softens the road safety and health messages on its labels then the case for a compulsory system of labelling would be compelling. The message to everyone is don’t drink and drive.”

The alcohol industry has already agreed to provide health information on 80 per cent of alcohol labels on UK shelves by 2013. However, with one in five motorists killed in crashes during one year (2009) being over the legal limit, IAM believes that drink driving warnings should be included.

Their top tips for avoiding temptation altogether are:

1. Beware the quick drink after work. One pint with your colleagues might seem harmless but it can quickly turn into two, then three. Shell out for a taxi, get the train, or walk – it’ll cost much less than a drink-drive charge or accident;
2. Ignore peer pressure. Your friends or family have had a few and don’t want to pay for a taxi. You have your car but have been drinking. Just say no – it’s your licence at stake;
3. Driving with good intentions to a party, to a pub or to a restaurant and then just having a drink or two, puts more pressure on you to risk driving home, even if you’re not sure whether you are below the limit;
4. You are likely to be breathalysed if you are involved in a collision, even if it is not your fault. Whether or not you think you’re fit to drive, don’t take the chance or somebody else’s mistake might become your problem;
5. Even if you resist and don’t drive home, a drinking session the night before could put you over the legal limit the morning after. Bear this in mind and make alternative transport plans for the next day – don’t just risk it;
6. Many accidents involve pedestrians who have been drinking. When walking home after a few drinks, take extra care, and if you’re driving be aware that pedestrians may be the worse for wear.

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And finally… The 2011 Fleet Hero Awards were announced this week by the Energy Saving Trust, with winners in the public and private sector revealed as well as the grey fleet management award.

Winner of the Best Public Sector Fleet category for the second year running was HM Revenue & Customs who achieved a 33% reduction in carbon emissions from business travel during 2010/11, saving 8,000 tonnes of CO2. It shrank overall travel mileage by 23 million miles and road mileage by 15 million miles.

Congratulations also go to Addison Lee Plc who won the Best Private Sector Fleet (Large) award after demonstrating a 10 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions; the win so much sweeter after finishing as runner-up last year.

And last but no means least the Lake District National Park Authority have taken the Grey Fleet Management award as it has achieved a 58 per cent reduction in the grey miles claimed by staff, equating to a reduction of over 120,000 miles over the last three years. This also translates into fuel savings of £78,000 and CO2 savings of 40 tonnes.

We here at Fleet Directory salute you and your green efforts and will be unpegging the office tea bag to have a celebratory brew in your honour.

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So until next week dear readers please drive safely and don’t forget to share your views on the stories above with us all, using our comments box below. We look forward to reading them. TTFN.

The Association of British Drivers have been voicing their stance concerning comments made by former London Mayor Ken Livingston, and his views on the current parking charges in the borough of Westminster citing that these charges were "nothing to do with regulating congestion or improving the environment, and everything to do with ripping off Londoners to fill Westminster council’s coffers".

ABD London media spokesman Brian Mooney responded, "It is slightly hypocritical of Ken to complain about drivers facing ‘charges of up to £22 or more for one visit’, as he had tried to raise his ‘Kengestion Charge’ to £25 for some vehicles. Transport for London also admitted that the charge had been made difficult to pay, resulting in £40 penalties being handed out to drivers and some marked cases of injustice.

"Ironically I agree with Ken that motoring taxes are having a harmful effect on jobs and incomes, and that this is an issue that goes beyond party politics."

Mr Mooney went further: “I challenge the new Transport Secretary, Justine Greening, to work with other government departments and councils to reduce the tax burden on Britain’s drivers. We pay about £50 billion a year in motoring taxes, and get less than £9 billion a year back.

“The government should immediately call off next year’s above-inflation rises in fuel duty and stop vested interests from making blatant profits out of us".

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The low carbon vehicle sector in the North East has received an immense boost with £6.2 million from the Government’s Regional Growth Fund to further the production of a Low Carbon Vehicles project and its associated technologies, which is currently being undertaken by Gateshead College and its partners.

It is hoped that the outcome of this bid will be to produce 1,500 new apprenticeships in the low carbon vehicle sector and will see the North East receiving recognition as a national and international leader in the production of LCVs whilst also developing the workforce in these areas.

Mick Brophy, managing director for business, innovation and development at Gateshead College said; “We’re delighted that our bid has been approved, it’s great news for Gateshead College but also for the growth and development of the region. This programme will take forward the work we’ve already started and firmly places us at the forefront of training for the renewable energy and low carbon sector. As the preferred training provider for Nissan UK and Smith Electric Vehicles we have a proven track record of delivering effective training in this field and have recently opened our Skills Academy for Sustainable Manufacturing and Innovation (SASMI), in Washington, which is the UK’s first training centre dedicated to the clean technologies sector. We also run a Performance Track designed for low carbon vehicle development, testing and trialling.

“The programme will be delivered using a unique model that will see public and private sectors, including universities and research centres, come together to create capacity and jobs in the North East. It will include the creation of 5,000 jobs over 10 years, of which 1,500 will be apprenticeships in sustainable manufacturing and electric vehicles specialisms, a dedicated Innovation Centre based at SASMI and curriculum development.”

Dr Colin Herron, North East England Low Carbon Vehicle specialist, said: “This is a real boost to the region and cements our already international reputation in this field. As a region we have worked very hard to secure this investment which will bring massive long-term benefits to the region’s economy.”

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IAM Drive and Survive are this week offering tips on the safe use of acceleration and power in wintery conditions via its head of training, Simon Elstow, who warns: “Power and acceleration are no good without control. This is especially true when drivers are faced with cold, wet and slippery conditions.”

1. Be aware of the way your car applies power to the road. As acceleration shifts weight from the front to the back of the car, the wheels of front wheel-drive cars will spin more easily in wet and icy conditions;
2. Accelerate smoothly and maintain a safe speed particularly in wintery conditions – remember the speed limit may be too fast especially when conditions are poor;
3. Make sure you’re in the correct gear before overtaking and use as much power as is safe bearing in mind your car’s abilities, the speed limit and the road conditions;
4. Changing your use of the accelerator is a good way of slowing down, without ever needing to touch the brake. When you can see traffic slowing up ahead, ease off the power in advance instead of driving up behind it and breaking as you arrive. This will reduce the amount you have to brake and save fuel;
5. When approaching bends, reduce your speed, but ensure you maintain a constant speed and a smooth line through the bend. As you drive out of the bend, you can increase the power. If it’s slippery, leave accelerating until you are straightened up properly;
6. On level ground or downhill you should be able to start from stationery without using the accelerator in a modern car – just lift the clutch carefully, and then very gently apply power once you are moving. When the roads are icy, this can be a useful technique.

Elstow concludes by saying: “Wintery conditions don’t necessarily mean you can’t go out, but if weather conditions are very hazardous, do question whether you really need to make the journey. Understanding your car’s acceleration and power will help you stay in control whatever the weather.”

IAM are also warning that despite the last two winters proving severe and treacherous for motorists, as many as seventy-seven councils are thought to be planning to cut back on winter road services such as salting and gritting, with thirty-three reducing their budget by more than ten per cent.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “Roads are essential for the economy – not only in rural areas where cars are the only way to get around but also on the main routes that keep our economy moving. Ambulances, supermarket food deliveries, meals on wheels, utilities, even the armed forces, all rely on having a usable road network. Last year, parts of Scotland nearly ran out of food and fuel. The 24-hour, just-in-time logistics system simply wasn’t able to cope with the weather.

“Councils must make contingency plans to ensure that essential supplies can always get through, no matter what the weather. This has to include dealing with large numbers of drivers stranded for hours with no access to heat or food.”

IAM’s tips for making journeys in severe or snowy weather are:

• Is your journey essential? If at all possible postpone or reschedule your trip and don’t ignore police warnings about closed roads;
• Double or even triple your normal stopping distance from the vehicle in front. Drive so that you don’t rely on your brakes to be able to stop – on an icy surface they simply may not do that for you, but keep moving as much as possible, even if it is only at walking pace;
• On a downhill slope get your speed low before you start the descent, and do not let it build up – it is much easier to keep it low than to try and slow down once things get slippery;
• Start gently, avoiding high revs, and use second gear to avoid wheelspin. If you get yourself into a skid the main thing to remember is to take your foot off the pedals and steer. Only use the brake if you cannot steer out of trouble;
• Plan your journey around busier roads as they are more likely to have been gritted. Avoid using short cuts on minor roads – they are less likely to be cleared or treated with salt, especially country lanes;
• Always clear your windows, lights and mirrors. Don’t forget that snow on the bonnet can blow back onto your windscreen, so clear that off, and clear the roof to avoid snow being blown onto traffic following you before moving off;
• Make sure you have an emergency kit so you are prepared in the event of a breakdown. This should include a charged up mobile phone, torch, food for energy, water and a blanket. For snow you also need a shovel with you. On longer journeys always let someone know you have set off and tell them your planned route;
• You can also improve car performance in snow by fitting winter tyres. Winter tyres have a different tread pattern to give better grip on snow and ice and have a snowflake on a mountain as a symbol on the sidewall. The symbol indicates that they use winter grade rubber which stays flexible and maintains grip to well below freezing. The rubber used on standard tyres hardens as the temperature drops.

Don’t forget to visit IAMs new website at drivingadvice.org.uk, for advice on dealing with all winter weather conditions.

GEM Motoring Assist has joined the campaign to back the Daylight Saving Bill and is calling upon motorists to get involved and show their support for the Lighter Later campaign, which GEM believes will alleviate unnecessary risks that drivers currently have to undertake by being forced to drive in the dark.

GEM Chief Executive, David Williams MBE, comments, “The news that the Government is backing the bill, albeit with some compromises, is definitely a step in the right direction. Poor weather, decreased visibility and bad road conditions are all rife during the winter months and have a serious effect on the rise in accidents and hazardous breakdown situations. Changing the clocks only adds further to the dangers for road users.

It’s not only motorists who are at risk, but other vulnerable road users, including children on their way home from school. Introducing lighter evenings will make our roads a safer place by increasing visibility and in turn will help prevent unnecessary accidents. We are calling on motorists to show their support for a campaign that has so many benefits for so many people.”

You can show your support by visiting www.laterlighter.org and making your voice heard.

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And Finally…

This week saw the ACFO Awards take place, which are unlike other awards as they are voted for by the organisations members and so reflect a the true experiences of these vehicles by actual fleet decision-makers.

Now in its 28th year the event saw Ford triumph in not one, but four categories; the Ford Focus took the number one company car title, while the Ford Transit Connect collected the nations favourite small van award, for the ninth time no less, and the Ford Transit took the large van award. Ford also won the Fleet Safety Initiative Award for its Focus Driver Assistance Pack.

BMW also had reason to celebrate, retaining its Environmental Initiative Award for another year, for its low emission EfficientDynamics technology, which is set to be rolled out across the entire BMW range. The title of Green Vehicle of the Year was taken by Volkswagen’s Golf 1.6 TDI BlueMotion.

ALD Automotive, won the prestigious title of Fleet Service Company of the Year with ACFO members declaring that the organisation fully understands fleet decision-makers requirements and offers the best overall combination of products.

ACFO chairman Julie Jenner said: “Fleet decision-makers are reliant on motor manufacturers to deliver vehicles that are cost effective to operate, safe, reliable and environmentally-friendly and supplier companies to provide a first class service.

“Operating successfully in partnership it means that through the availability of top quality vehicles and first rate suppliers, vehicle downtime can be kept to an absolute minimum and fleet managers can focus on the efficient and effective operation of their vehicles to support their businesses.”

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So that’s it for News Round-up for another week, so until next week’s snow storm of all things fleet related drive carefully and we’ll hope to see you then.

It was four wins from four nominations for the British manufacturer during the 28th annual awards ceremony which was hosted at Birmingham’s Hilton Metropole Hotel and attended by over 220 ACFO members.

Even more impressively, there was a strong sense of déjà vu for Ford, having picked up the best large van prize 14 times already as well as the best small van prize for the last eight years running.

Ford’s quartet of accomplishments was completed with the collection of the Fleet Safety Initiative of the Year and Fleet Car of the Year honours.

The full list of winners read like this…

Fleet Safety Initiative of the Year: Ford Focus’s Driver Assistance Pack
Shortlist – DVLA Licence Checking, Mercedes-Benz for in car safety systems, ALD Automotive ProFleet2.

Fleet Service Company of the Year: ALD Automotive
Shortlist – Marshall Leasing, Lex Autolease, LeasePlan

Environmental Initiative of the Year: BMW EfficientDynamics
Shortlist – ‘From A to B: The ACFO Guide to UK Journey Planning’, Bosch Stop-Start systems, ALD Automotive ProFleet2

Small Van of the Year: Ford Transit Connect
Shortlist – Volkswagen Caddy, Citroen Berlingo, Mercedes Vito, Peugeot Bipper

Large Van of the Year: Ford Transit
Shortlist – Mercedes Sprinter, Vauxhall Movano, Vauxhall Vivaro, Fiat Ducato

Green Vehicle of the Year: Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion
Shortlist – BMW 3 Series, Nissan LEAF, Volvo V50 DRIVe, Vauxhall EcoFlex range

Fleet Car of the Year: Ford Focus
Shortlist – BMW 3 Series, Volkswagen Passat, Volkswagen Golf, Skoda Octavia.

Voted for exclusively by ACFO members, merely being shortlisted for an ACFO Award placed nominees within an “elite band of companies” said ACFO Chair Julie Jenner.

“Fleet decision-makers are reliant on motor manufacturers to deliver vehicles that are cost effective to operate, safe, reliable and environmentally-friendly and supplier companies to provide a first class service,” she commented.

“Operating successfully in partnership it means that through the availability of top quality vehicles and first rate suppliers, vehicle downtime can be kept to an absolute minimum and fleet managers can focus on the efficient and effective operation of their vehicles to support their businesses.”

Highly prized

Vincent Kinner, Head of Fleet Services for Volkswagen UK, said he was “delighted” with the Golf’s latest win.

“The Golf BlueMotion now has five green car accolades to its name,” he beamed.

“It not only reinforces the strength of the Golf – a four-time ACFO Car of the Year winner – but also underlines the popularity and success of Volkswagen’s BlueMotion ‘theory’ of taking a popular, practical, conventional model and maximising everything about it to produce an environmental champion.”

The newest additions to Ford’s trophy cabinet meant a lot to Kevin Griffin, Fleet Director for Ford of Britain, the UK’s largest supplier of company cars and vans.

“ACFO members’ opinions are highly prized as they reflect the day-to-day operational experience and expertise of fleet decision-makers,” he added.

“This early industry endorsement of our new Ford Focus confirms it as a company car of choice.

“Ford’s safety award for the all-new Ford Focus’ Driver Assistance Pack is further proof that our investment in technology is relevant, affordable and recognised by company car drivers.

“Winning two further awards for Transit and Transit Connect reinforces the choice and value we offer to commercial vehicle as well as car customers.”