
Fleets have adopted longer replacement cycles for their cars and vans because of ongoing supply shortages…
Longer Replacement Cycles
Fleet replacement cycles for cars and vans are getting longer, due to complications caused by the coronavirus pandemic and global supply issues. Businesses, like consumers, are having to wait far longer for replacement vehicles, forcing them to retain their stock for longer periods of time.
However, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Peter Golding, managing director at FleetCheck, has claimed that operators have realised that fleet vehicles can be kept for longer periods of time than in the past; and have also learnt how to do so efficiently.
He explained, “fleets have been hanging onto vehicles for longer either because they didn’t cover many miles during the pandemic or they have simply been unable to source replacements. We’ve gone from a situation where generally cars were operated for replacement cycles of three-four years and vans from four-five, to one where around a year has been added on average across the board”. Indeed, some fleets have expanded their replacement cycles by three to five years.
The Importance of Maintenance
Naturally, expanding vehicle replacement cycles comes with a number of considerations. Even when it’s done effectively. For instance, going beyond a three-year cycle will take vehicles past their manufacturer warranty. In addition, they’ll need to face the MOT test. As a result, Golding said that fleet maintenance policies need to be “watertight”.
The older vehicles get, the faster their parts and components will wear. This increases the amount of money and time that needs to be spent on keeping them operational. In addition, older vehicles come with increased risks in terms of duty of care. Which is why expanded replacement cycles need to be properly considered and implemented.
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