07 March 2008

Europcar and National combine UK rental fleets

Europcar and National Car Rental are to combine their fleets to provide more than 60,000 vehicles.

The move will create what the group claims as the biggest fleet in the UK daily rental market, including an extended fleet of over 6,000 vans.

By making services for both brands available from a number of locations that previously had been sole branded, Europcar and National users have access to daily rental from over 250 locations throughout the UK.

Europcar users will have access to sub-contracted vehicles through NationalÃ¢â¬â¢s Specialist Vehicle Management Centre as well as nationwide access to luxury and performance vehicles from Guy Salmon Prestige Rental.

Europcar UK group fleet director Tim Bailey said: Ã¢â¬ÅâœThis is an important initiative, expanding the scope of the network and enhancing the level of customer care across the UK.

Ã¢â¬ÅâœThe importance of vehicle availability should not be underestimated in the current marketplace.

Ã¢â¬ÅâœBy combining the fleets of both brands, customers will be able to access the particular group of vehicle they require.

Ã¢â¬ÅâœAnd by putting both brands into a selection of locations where previously only one brand was accessible, we are providing further confidence that customersÃ¢â¬â¢ daily rental needs will be met every time.Ã¢â¬~

The opportunity to consolidate delivery and collection services will also be developed during 2008, to further support operational efficiencies and cut journey times, according to the group.

Ã¢â¬ÅâœWith combined fleets and an extensive network, both Europcar and National customers will benefit from future expansion and growth.Ã¢â¬~ said Bailey.

Ã¢â¬ÅâœIn addition, we will have the opportunity to offer greater product diversity from hourly rentals up to six month rentals, thus tailoring the proposition to the customers' needs.Ã¢â¬~

by Phil Davies