Ford joins Van Excellence scheme

Businesses that rely on their vans know that it seriously affects their bottom line when their vehicles are out of action.

This is why it could be beneficial for many firms to use a van leasing scheme.

Not only will it streamline costs, but it will also provide new and reliable vehicles - especially as an increasing number of manufacturers are realising the needs of the business sector and continually developing their technology to suit.

Van Excellence is a scheme run by the Fright Transport Association (FTA) which exemplifies this commitment and it continues to gain devotees. Ford is the latest manufacturer to become a partner of the initiative and the US company joins existing participants Mercedes, VW, Nissan, Fiat and Isuzu.

The scheme promotes high standards of van operation among its members and has been awarded the Best New Service Award at the 2012 Fleet News Awards.

"We're delighted to welcome Ford as a Van Excellence Partner," said Mark Cartwright, FTA's head of vans and light commercial vehicles.

"Our manufacturer partners now represent over half of the UK's annual registrations. Their support is invaluable particularly as we develop a Van Excellence accreditation scheme for dealers," he added.

The FTA idea was launched two years ago and hopes to signify excellence by accrediting operators against a code of good practice, which is universal across the industry.

It is not just manufactures who are buying into the initiative as many fleet operators such as Carillion Construction, South Devon Healthcare Trust, Daniel Contractors and Corporation of London have also joined the scheme.

The Ford Transit 250 Swb Diesel Fwd low roof TDCi 100ps version is available on contract hire for just £233.32 per month and leasing it could bring about significant savings on the standard list price of £21,294.

Its excellent low-roof design enables it to travel along many more UK roads without restriction, but it is still capable of carrying 6.55 cubic metres.