The short supply of new vehicles has forced fleets to ‘severely’ stretch their SMR budgets, as their vehicles are run for longer…

Fleet SMR Budgets Stretched 

The ongoing, global shortage of semiconductors has caused substantial delays in the delivery of new vehicles. For fleets, this means older vehicles are having to be used for longer periods of time; meaning that service, maintenance and repair (SMR) budgets are being stretched their limits in some cases.

Fleets of all sizes are having to weigh up new car availability with the costs of maintaining aging vehicles. The situation is compounded by the fact that rental companies are also suffering from a lack of vehicles; following significant defleeting activity after lockdown measures were relaxed.

Additional Management 

Jess Jones, director of national fleets at ATS Euromaster, has commented on the difficulties fleets are now facing. She said, “what this means is a renewed focus on managing out maintenance budgets, particularly as many vehicles will require additional MOTs not originally envisaged at the commencement of the vehicle’s lifecycle”.

Ultimately, the situation means that fleet management is becoming increasing challenging. Both in terms of managing time and prioritisation, and finance. The semiconductor shortage may last until the end of the year, although some observers believe it’ll linger until 2023. Even when it’s ended, it’ll take time for new vehicle supplies to return to normal.

There’s never been a more important time, then, for fleets to consider the advantages of a fleet management partner; allowing businesses to focus on the operations of their business, rather than the stress and challenges associated with managing their fleets.

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With over 16,000 approved garages, a 24/7 support service and a host of cost-saving offers, we can keep your fleet moving and operational. Call one of our professional Service Advisers on 0121 521 3500 for more details.  

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