Below you’ll find a copy of our most frequently asked questions. If you can’t find the answer to your query below, please call your driverline number where you’ll be put through to your dedicated account manager:
Maintained customers: 0330 024 3456
Non-maintained customers: 0333 222 3000
Maintenance and admin
Most vehicles are a factory order and this normally takes between 12 and 16 weeks, we will keep you and/or the driver updated of the order progress on a regular basis including an estimated delivery date.
Call the police immediately to report the crime as soon as you become aware and it is safe to do so. Once the police have been notified, please call your driverline number (found above) to inform us and we will support you through the process.
If you have been involved in an accident, please call the emergency services as soon as safe to do so.
If you have an accident management service with us, please call driverline (above) and we will guide you through the repair process.
If not, you will be liable to arrange cost of repairs yourself through one of our approved bodyshops. It is important to use an approved repairer as sub-quality repairs will be picked up when your vehicle is inspected at the end of your contract and you may be charged for an approved repair.
We are able to deliver new vehicles to anywhere in the UK, that meets with your fleet policy requirements.
When the car is delivered the driver must inspect it carefully for any damage, in the unlikely event that they do note something please ensure it is added to the handover delivery documentation.
You or the driver then need to call us using your driver line number to advise us of the damage and we will then make the necessary arrangements.
If the driver does not record this damage at the point of delivery it will be more difficult for us to support the cost of repair.
Yes we can collect it, if this is in line with your fleet policy.
There will be a full appraisal of the vehicle by the delivering driver, this will last a minimum of 20 minutes. The vehicle will then be fully appraised by our end of contact provider when it reaches its final destination, once completed if there are any additional charges identified that fall outside of the BVRLA’s Fair Wear and Tear guidelines, our end of contract team will be in touch. Please see the BVRLA guide for further information.
If you have a full maintenance package with us (Athlon 365), you’ll simply be able to call the driver line, 03300243456, and select option 2 to be put through to a colleague you can support you through the process. If you do not have a maintained contract with us, you will need to follow the process of your own breakdown provider outlined in your fleet policy.
Please ensure you are safe and well before calling.
If you have a full maintenance package with us (Athlon 365), you’ll simply be able to call the driver line, 03300243456, and select option 3 for maintenance, repair & service or option 4 for tyres to be put through to a colleague you can support you through the process. Alternatively maintained customers can visit the Athlon365 online portal.
If you do not have a maintained contract with us, you will need to follow the process through an approved garage or supplier outlined in your fleet policy.
Your contract with us will outline if VED is included, most contract hire contracts will include this for the duration of your contract meaning you do not need to take any action and Athlon will automatically renew your Road Fund Licence for you when it is due.
If you do not, you are responsible for renewing the road fund licence upon receipt of a notification from the DVLA (V11).
Please refer to the BVRLA fair wear and tear guide.
All items the vehicle was delivered with need to be available at point of collection, examples of this include:
Keys, including spare
Service book & manuals
Locking wheel nut key
Parcel Shelf
SD Card
Missing items such as keys, service books and parcel shelves musts be available at point of collection, if they are not they will be deem missing and chargeable in line with the BVRLA guidelines.
This applies even if you subsequently return the items at a later date.
Please make sure drivers delete any personal data that may be held within the vehicle and their personal effects.
If the repairs have been carried out to the BVRLA standard then there will be no charges, however if they do not meet the standard we may charge for the rectification. Please be aware that the repair must carry a fully transferable warranty. If you are unsure, we recommend checking our return standards above prior to booking your repair.
All repairs made to the vehicle must meet the BVRLA standards and the repair must carry a fully transferable warranty.
We assess your car against the current BVRLA Fair Wear Tear standard using BVRLA trained assessors. Fair wear and tear is what is deemed as acceptable deterioration of the vehicle based on its age.
If the vehicle exceeds the standard you will be liable to pay for the damage, we will provide you with a full report detailing the damage and costs.
You can find a copy of the BVLRA fair wear and tear guide here.
Missing items such as keys, service books and parcel shelves musts be available at point of collection, if they are not they will be deem missing and chargeable in line with the BVRLA guidelines.
This applies even if you subsequently return the items at a later date.
We inspect the vehicle at the point of collection and provide clear photographic evidence.
The driver will be physically shown the damage at the time of collection, and we'll provide a full report detailing damage. If the driver does not agree with the inspector's report, they will need to note the detail of their disagreement on the document provided. This will not remove the area of concern at this point. However, it will prompt a review process by our damage team.
Upon receipt of the inspection report, our team will then review and provide further comments.
No, as we are not obliged to repair the vehicle. The end of lease charges occur when the vehicle, its equipment or accessories are not maintained as originally agreed at the start of the lease.
These charges can still be applied at end of the lease, it will be a commercial decision if we decide not to repair damage, replace missing equipment etc. before the vehicle is sold.
Athlon are committed to providing the best possible service to our customers. However, if you are not satisfied with any aspect of our service, please view our Complaints Policy and let us know.
Yes, however as a legal requirement you will need to call our driverline or submit a form HERE to request your VE103B. Please notify us at least 5 working days in advance of your planned travel date. Fees may apply.
Please also ensure that you are taking the right kit with you in the event of a breakdown, or if you have an accident. Driving in Europe requires a greater level of emergency equipment than is required by law in the UK. The AA offer various ‘driving in Europe’ kits, which include a GB sticker, warning triangle, first aid kit and a hi-vis vest. You can view or find links to purchase these here.
We understand circumstances can change and so offer regular reviews with your Athlon account manager. You may also have a pooled mileage contract across the total fleet so may not need to worry about the over mileage, as it could be offset by any under-mileage vehicles.
If you think your contracted mileage may need amending mid-contract, we can review this for you but please be aware this may create a change to your monthly costs and may incur a fee.
Contract hire is an efficient way to get behind the wheel of the latest, safest and most reliable vehicles. You’re in control of how you choose to spread the cost, made up of an initial deposit (or advanced rentals) followed by fixed monthly payments for the duration of your agreement. You can choose to add vehicle servicing, maintenance, breakdown cover and accident management to your contract to avoid any unwanted financial surprises. At the end of your contract term, you can choose to extend your contract or hand back the vehicle. And before your contract ends, we’ll be in touch to discuss your requirements and plan for a key for key exchange allowing you to return your vehicle and step straight into a new model.
We also offer finance lease, contract purchase, sale and leaseback and daily rental should any of these better suit your business needs. For more information on these alternative funding options, please see our Fleet Funding page or contact us to find the best solution for your fleet.
Essentially, choice and control over what you drive and how much you pay to suit your business needs and budget by adjusting the amount of your initial payment, selecting a term that suits your needs and adjusting your annual mileage expectations to closely meet your needs. Taking more than one vehicle? We can even pool your mileage across all of your vehicles to take advantage of under under-mileage vehicles to offset excess mileage elsewhere.
It is generally accepted that vehicles will lose value from the moment they leave the showroom but with a contract hire arrangement we take on risk of its re-sale value, you simply return it to us at the end of the contract period, and if the vehicle is in good condition, without damage, there will be nothing further to pay.
For an additional fee we can also manage the majority of your fleet administration and management too, leaving you free to focus on running your business.
We understand there is no ‘one size fits all’, which is why bespoke consultancy comes as standard with Athlon.
Athlon can provide tailored contract hire and/or fleet management services to sole traders and businesses. We already help hundreds of corporate and vehicle specialist businesses get from A to B every day, as well as numerous public sector organisations through our numerous frameworks.
If however you are an individual, it may be your business can help you source a new vehicle through our competitive Salary Exchange scheme. Follow our link to explore the ways in which a SalaryExchange scheme could help your business with sustainable affordable mobility solutions.
Whilst you will remain the registered keeper, Athlon purchases and therefore owns the vehicle you hire from us. If you opt for a contract purchase agreement, you may purchase the vehicle at the end of the contract.
Registered owner and keeper for insurance purposes are outlined in your fleet policy.
Each agreement will specify a maximum number of miles allowable. Any ‘excess miles’ will be chargeable (the exact charge is outlined in your contract) and is billed at the end of the contract. If you have a pooled mileage agreement the total fleet mileage will be reviewed on an annual basis so a fee may not be immediately payable on the end date of each individual contract.
We will allow you to amend your mileage up or down after 12 months of the agreement so long as there are at least six rental payments remaining, but this may affect the monthly costs charged to you.
With a maintained contract, you can choose to include vehicle servicing and maintenance, breakdown cover and accident management – all worked back into one manageable, monthly payment. All services and repairs will be undertaken by approved official repairers, ensuring that the work meets the vehicle return standards and minimising the chances of any poor repair fines when the vehicle is returned.
You’ll also get access to our Athlon365 dedicated driver-line and online booking portal, which your drivers can access 24/7, reducing admin for everyone.
A non-maintained contract does not include any of the above and you are responsible for the costs, booking and implementation of the above during the life of the contract.
If you wish to cancel your lease and return your vehicle before the end of your contract, this is permitted, but you will incur an early termination fee, outlined in your contract.
For more details please contact your Account Manager.
Yes, as long as it is in line with your fleet policy. The driver will need to call our team on your driverline number (above) to make the legal arrangements.
Unfortunately, it is not possible for the vehicle to be delivered with a personalised or cherished plate as all vehicles are new and therefore issued by the DVLA. Fees may be charged for adding or removing a plate.
If your vehicle fails its MOT, Athlon will arrange authorisation of the failing components with the repairing garage. Athlon will continue to monitor any vehicles that fail an MOT to ensure the vehicle is road legal. In this instance, communication will come from the garage.
Fleet Managers
You will need to inform us of any changes at least ten business days before your next payment date. For your convenience, you can complete Direct Debit mandate form and return it to us at customer services.
Mats and number plates will only be replaced free of charge if they are faulty (i.e. not damaged through accident), when supplied directly by the manufacturer, or are covered under your warranty.
Please contact our customer service team on 0333 222 3000, to discuss these items.
If your vehicle fails the MOT, Athlon will arrange authorisation of the failing components with the repairing garage. Athlon will continue to monitor any vehicles that fail an MOT to ensure the vehicle is road legal.
Please check the vehicle on delivery and contact your Account Manager immediately if you believe the vehicle does not match what you ordered, they will be able to check your order and confirm next steps.
Unfortunately your payment date cannot be changed once agreed. Communications are sent every 4th or 15th of the month (depending on the date on your invoice) which will provide more information and advice on your account.
Please make sure the vehicle is thoroughly checked during the hand over process. In the unlikely circumstance that there is any damage on the vehicle, please record this at the point of delivery and report it to your Account Manager or call us immediately on 0333 222 3000.
If your vehicle lead time is delayed this could be for various reasons, including delays with the manufacturer. If you contact your Account Manager and they will look into this further on your behalf.
Athlon’s Complaint Procedure
We strive to provide first class customer service to all of our customers; if we have not met this high standard please do not hesitate to contact us using the details below. We will do our best to address your issues as efficiently as possible.
Contacting us
Telephone Number:
0333 222 3000
Email Address:
resolutions_uk@athlon.com
Postal Address:
Athlon Mobility Services UK
PO Box 6444
Milton Keynes
MK10 1ND
What happens next?
Once we have received your complaint, we will provide you with an acknowledgement and investigations will begin.
Timescales
We will acknowledge your complaint within 24 hours of receipt. This acknowledgement will include our complaints handling process.
We will work on your case and attempt to resolve as soon as possible. We aim to provide you with a Final Response letter within 8 weeks detailing the outcomes of your complaint, but most issues are resolved far quicker than this.
If we are unable to provide a Final Response letter within 8 weeks, we will contact you to explain the delay and when you are likely to receive the Final Response letter.
The British Vehicle Rental & Leasing Association (BVRLA)
Athlon are a member of the BVRLA. As such our customers can contact the BVRLA for help and advice as part of their free government approved independent conciliation service aimed at resolving disputes. If you are not satisfied with our Final Response, you can write to the BVRLA to express your concerns.
Write to BVRLA:
British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association
River Lodge
Badminton Court
Amersham
HP7 0DD
Or contact the BVRLA by visiting bvrla.co.uk.
At Athlon we are committed to treating our customers fairly and deliver the best possible service. We look forward to being able to investigate your concerns thoroughly and together agreeing a resolution that is fair.
We are able to deliver new vehicles wherever suits you or your employee within the UK, presuming it is a safe environment for our delivery drivers and access is granted. Be that a residential address or business one.
Our return standards are aligned to the industry standard guides as laid out by the BVRLA. The BVRLA standards are available here Athlon UK | Driver hub
The BVRLA fair wear and tear guide contains everything you need to know regarding the condition your vehicle must be in when it is returned.
To avoid damage and inappropriate vehicle usage, why not consider Athlon’s range of in-person or online driver training for your fleet drivers?
Whilst Athlon do not hold driver details, if this occurs you have options including cancelling the contract and handing the vehicle back earlier, or you may wish to take the vehicle into your pool car fleet and continue to use it for the remainder of the contract or pass it onto a new driver. Please reach out to your dedicated Account Manager who can help with all possible options.
We work with all of the major vehicle manufacturers. If you do not know which vehicles to add into your company car policy, your account manager will be able to arrange for a demonstration vehicle to support you in making your choice.
Whilst supply chain issues are still improving, lead times will differ dependant on the manufacturer and model you choose. Fortunately, we’re proud to work with a nationwide network of manufacturers, dealerships and suppliers to source vehicles as soon as possible.
‘Factory orders’ may take between 12 and 16 weeks for build and delivery, however we can work with you to identify available brands and models that align to your requirements.
Athlon has a preferred network of vehicle convertors that can make any necessary adaptations to your chosen vehicles. We have specialist partners who can offer decals and vehicle wrapping, vehicle racking and storage solutions, or perhaps you need bespoke tail lifts or refrigeration capabilities. If you have your own preferred supplier we will also be happy to work with them but the responsibility and liability for these conversions will be with yourself and your nominated supplier.
Drivers
Whilst supply chain issues are still improving, your delivery timeframe will differ dependant on the manufacturer and model you choose. Fortunately, we’re proud to work with a nationwide network of manufacturers, dealerships and suppliers to source vehicles as soon as possible.
Some vehicles may need to be ‘factory ordered’ and depending on the manufacturer, delivery may take anywhere up to 16 weeks, however we will always look to align deliveries to your convenience and offer transparency on individual lead times.
The nominated dealership will stay in communication with the manufacturer and with us, updating any changes to the estimated date of delivery
If you have been involved in an accident, please call the emergency services as soon as safe to do so.
If you have an accident management service with us, please call driverline (above) and we will guide you through the repair process.
If not, you will be liable to arrange cost of repairs yourself through one of our approved bodyshops. It is important to use an approved repairer as sub-quality repairs will be picked up when your vehicle is inspected at the end of your contract and you may be charged for an approved repair.
Call the driver line number choosing the breakdown option so that we can support you through the process.
Call the police immediately to report the crime as soon as you become aware and it is safe to do so. Once the police have been notified, please call your driverline number (found above) to inform us and we will support you through the process.
You need to agree this with your Fleet Manager, we are able to deliver your new car to anywhere in the UK.
When your car is delivered you must inspect it carefully for any damage, in the unlikely event that you do note something please ensure it is added to your handover delivery documentation immediately.
You will then need to call us using your driver line number to advise us of the damage and we will then make the necessary arrangements.
If you do not record this damage at the point of delivery it will be more difficult for us to support the cost of repair.
Yes, we can build this into your fleet policy should you wish.
There will be a full appraisal of the vehicle by the delivering driver – please expect this to last around 20 minutes.
Yes, as long as it is in line with your fleet policy. The driver will need to call our team on your driverline number (above) to make the legal arrangements.
Unfortunately, it is not possible for the vehicle to be delivered with a personalised or cherished plate as all vehicles are new and therefore issued by the DVLA. Fees may be charged for adding or removing a plate.
Call the driver line number choosing the service booking option so that we can support you through the process.
No, we will automatically re-licence your vehicle when it is due.
If we are delivering your new car we can arrange to collect your current vehicle at the same time, however this is not always possible. Your Athlon account manager can advise further.
If your new vehicle is not ready or you do not have a replacement vehicle on order, we can organise a collection time at as convenient a time as possible.
Please refer directly to the BVRLA fair wear and tear guide, specific to both cars and vans.
Car - https://issuu.com/bfwsn67/docs/athlon_car_2020?fr=sODZhMTI4NTE1
Van - https://issuu.com/bfwsn67/docs/athlon_lcv_2020?fr=sM2YwMzI4NTE1
All items that were provided when the vehicle was delivered should still be present at the point of collection. Examples include:
• All keys, including spares and locking wheel nut
• Service book and manuals
• Parcel shelf
• SD card/any USB cables or missing items will be chargeable in line with BVRLA guidelines and we cannot accept items returned following your collection date. Please also ensure drivers delete any personal data that may be held within the vehicle such as contacts and home address, as well as any personal effects. We also ask that vehicles are cleaned inside and out prior to collection.
If the repairs have been carried out to the BVRLA standard then there will be no charges, but if they do not meet the standard we may charge for the rectification and the repair must carry a fully transferable warranty.
All repairs made to the vehicle must meet the BVRLA standards and the repair must carry a fully transferable warranty.
Please refer directly to the BVRLA fair wear and tear guide, specific to both cars and vans.
Car - https://issuu.com/bfwsn67/docs/athlon_car_2020?fr=sODZhMTI4NTE1
Van - https://issuu.com/bfwsn67/docs/athlon_lcv_2020?fr=sM2YwMzI4NTE1
We assess your car against the current BVRLA Fair Wear Tear standard using BVRLA trained assessors. Fair wear and tear is what is deemed as acceptable deterioration of the vehicle based on its age.
If you exceed the standard you will be liable to pay for the damage, we will provide you with a full report detailing the damage and costs.
Please refer directly to the BVRLA fair wear and tear guide, specific to both cars and vans.
Car - https://issuu.com/bfwsn67/docs/athlon_car_2020?fr=sODZhMTI4NTE1
Van - https://issuu.com/bfwsn67/docs/athlon_lcv_2020?fr=sM2YwMzI4NTE1
Missing items such as keys, service books and parcel shelves musts be available at the point of collection, if they are not they will be deem missing and chargeable in line with the BVRLA guidelines.
This applies even if you subsequently return the items at a later date.
OOur qualified assessors thoroughly inspect the vehicle, including at the point of collection and we recommend that you are present so that the inspector can explain any damage or charges. There will also be a follow up inspection in a controlled environment once the vehicle reaches our de-fleet centre where photographic evidence will at this point be provided as part of the full inspector’s report.
In the event of dispute, a prompt review will be carried out by our damage team. The area of concern will not be removed from the inspection report until final receipt from the damage team with full review and any further comments. We will of course keep you updated throughout this process. The BVRLA can provide a third-party conciliation service should you believe any observations to be unfair.
Our return standards for both cars and vans can be found below:
Car - https://issuu.com/bfwsn67/docs/athlon_car_2020?fr=sODZhMTI4NTE1
Van - https://issuu.com/bfwsn67/docs/athlon_lcv_2020?fr=sM2YwMzI4NTE1
No, as we are not obliged to repair the vehicle. The end of lease charges occur when the vehicle, its equipment or accessories are not maintained as originally agreed at the start of the lease.
These charges can still be applied at end of the lease, it will be a commercial decision if we decide not to repair damage, replace missing equipment etc. before the vehicle is sold.
Athlon are committed to providing the best possible service to our customers. However, if you are not satisfied with any aspect of our service, we advise following our Complaints Policy, found below.
Athlon’s Complaint Procedure
We strive to provide first class customer service for all of our customers; if we have not met this high standard please do not hesitate to contact us using the details below and we will do our best to address your issues as efficiently as possible.
Contacting us.
Telephone Number:
0345 600 34 25
Email Address:
resolutions_uk@athlon.com
Postal Address:
Athlon Mobility Services UK
PO Box 6444
Milton Keynes
MK10 1ND
What happens next?
Once we have received your complaint, we will provide you with an acknowledgement and investigations will begin.
Timescales
We will acknowledge your complaint within 5 working days of receipt. This acknowledgement will include our complaints handling process.
We will work on your case and attempt to resolve as soon as possible. We aim to provide you with a Final Response letter within 8 weeks detailing the outcomes of your complaint, but most issues are resolved far quicker than this.
If we are unable to provide a Final Response letter within 8 weeks, we will contact you to explain the delay and when you are likely to receive the Final Response letter.
The British Vehicle Rental & Leasing Association (BVRLA)
As Athlon are a member of the BVRLA, our customers can contact them to for help and advice as part of their free government approved independent conciliation service aimed at resolving disputes. If you are not satisfied with our Final Response, you can write to the BVRLA to express your concerns.
Write to BVRLA:
British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association
River Lodge
Badminton Court
Amersham
HP7 0DD
Or contact the BVRLA by visiting bvrla.co.uk website.
At Athlon, we are committed to delivering the best, we look forward to being able to investigate your concerns thoroughly and together agreeing a resolution that is fair.
Please call 03456 003 425 and request your VE103B.
Please ensure that you take the right kit with you in the event you breakdown or you have an accident. Driving in Europe you will need a greater level of emergency equipment than is required by law in the UK. The AA offer various driving-in-Europe Kits, which includes a GB Sticker, Warning Triangle, First Aid Kit and a Hi Vis Vest.
To view these items visit:
www.theaa.com/european-breakdown-cover/driving-in-europe/what-do-i-need
Please notify us at least six weeks in advance of your travel date.
If your vehicle lead time is delayed we will keep you updated. If you have an urgent need for a vehicle and will be negatively impacted by any delays please contact your Account Manager who will look into this further on your behalf and make arrangements for you such as organising short term vehicle hire.
We encourage drivers to inspect their new vehicle carefully for any damage upon delivery.
In the unlikely event that they notice any damage or you believe the vehicle or specification differ from your order, please ensure it is noted in the handover delivery documentation with the delivery agent.
Please then call our driver line to notify us. We will make necessary arrangements for repairs or replacement.
Payment terms are agreed by you at the time of agreeing your contract. Notices of Direct Debits are always sent 10 working days before payment is taken and invoices will also be sent monthly. Each will provide more information and advice on your account
Mats and number plates will only be replaced free of charge if they are faulty (i.e. not damaged through accident), when supplied directly by the manufacturer, or are covered under your warranty.
Please contact our customer service team on 0333 222 3000, to discuss these items.
Depending on how the vehicle is registered determines how the penalty charge notice (PCN) is first actioned. However, in most cases speeding fines are treated as a transfer of liability because Athlon do not hold driver details in line with GDPR. If the V5 is in Athlon’s name, we will pay the fine and pass on cost and liability.
Should the V5 be in your company’s name, all fees and liability are to be handled by your company. All other PCNs will be handled dependant on contract set up. If you are responsible for your own PCNs, it is important that you set up work instructions to monitor trends and pay fines quickly to avoid escalating costs or repeat offending.
This will depend on how the vehicle is registered, which determines how a PCN can be appealed. If you have evidence that you have been unfairly fined Athlon will support in all instances and provide relevant documentation in order to do so. It is important that all PCNs are acted on quickly as many appeal processes will have a set period in you need to submit your appeal.
The ‘on the road’ price for new vehicles includes the cost of the VED for the first year only. We therefore calculate any subsequent years VED at this prevailing rate which is then included in your monthly rentals. It has become common practice for these costs to be reviewed and changed by the UK Government on an annual basis, and until this point we have not passed on the increased costs onto you.
As per your Fleet Customer Agreement with us, we will pass on the Government’s increased VED costs to you, as and when the vehicle tax rates are amended. Any increase in VED will be invoiced to you on the anniversary of the vehicle’s contract activation date at the prevailing rate of VED on that date. Should you need visibility of any affected vehicles sooner, please contact us on the details below and we will be happy to help.
Depending on the status of your order, we will of course make every endeavour to correct or change your order. There may be a cancelation charge if the vehicle order status is advanced and/ or close to the collection date.
If your new vehicle is delayed, you have a number of options which include extending your current contract or handing the vehicle back and taking out a short-term lease on a new vehicle until the replacement is ready. Please call our driver line who will be happy to discuss your options with you.
Northern Ireland
The UK’s vehicle Type Approval and emissions regulations have changed since Brexit on January 31, 2020. The EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement and Windsor Framework require Northern Ireland (NI) to follow EU regulations, while Great Britain (GB) will have its own rules. This divergence has created a scenario where different parts of the UK will follow separate regulations for vehicle registration.
Subsequently since 9th October 2024 Northern Ireland (NI) has no longer shared the same regulatory framework as GB. As a result of this, vehicles for customers in NI must be sourced from NI vehicle retailers and registered in NI. Stock will no longer be transferable from retailer sites across the Irish Sea.
Athlon UK will continue to support our customers in NI but there are some wider implications for vehicle ordering.
If a vehicle is to be registered in NI, it now needs to be built to NI specification and coded as an NI build, this process will vary from one manufacturer to the next. NI customers will now therefore need to order from existing NI retailer stock, or make clear at the point of the factory ordering that the vehicle is for ultimate delivery into NI.
Currently the build specs for NI and GB vehicles remain the same across most manufacturers so pricing, and SMR costs will remain the same – it is just the ordering process that will vary.
These changes could lead to extended lead times for customers in NI as vehicles in GB pipeline or GB retailer stock will no longer be made available to NI based organisations.
We will closely monitor this situation and work closely with our NI customers to ensure as little disruption as possible and pass on any insight on vehicle lead times as advised by the manufacturers.
If you have any further questions on this, please do not hesitate to get in touch with your Account Manager.
Helpful tips
We would advise that you check your tyre pressures frequently. Not only do correctly inflated tyres improve handling and braking but they also create greater fuel economy – saving you money and keeping you safe.
Many new cars will be able to tell you the pressures on your dashboard or in-car CPU so you don’t even need to visit a fuel station or invest in a tyre pressure gauge.
The legal minimum tyre depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the whole central area of the tyre that is in contact with the road. But we would never recommend that you run your tyres to that depth. Check your tyre depths monthly using a depth gauge. If the tread is below 3mm you should consider replacing them.
In addition to regularly checking your tyres there are other simple checks that your drivers can carry out to ensure the safety and optimum performance of their vehicles:
1. Windscreen washer fluid and replacement windscreen wipers.
a. Keep this topped up to ensure you can always clean the windscreen when needed. Spray from other vehicles in poor weather could be muddy and obscure visibility, and in the winter your windscreen could become frozen.
b. If the wipers are smearing your windows rather than improving your visibility it could be time for new blades. Don’t be tempted to buy the cheapest, as they may not be as affective.
2. Fuel
a. Try not to run your vehicle into reserve fuel levels. Most vehicles will refuse to start if the tank is empty, and sometimes parking on a steep incline when you only have reserve fuel can lead the CPU to thinking you are empty.
3. Oil
a. It is important for the smooth running of your vehicle that you have sufficient engine oil. Most cars will not need topping up in-between services, but if the warning light does come on do not ignore it. Doing so may end up costing you more than a £20 top up of oil.
Athlon offer driver training which will teach your drivers not only how to be safe on the roads but also how to save fuel and be more sustainable in their driving habits. Some of our top tips are below:
EV:
- A top tip for fuel saving for an EV would be to precondition the vehicle whilst it is still plugged in
- Warm up your seats and clear the windscreen whilst it is still connected to the mains to avoid using additional electricity on the road and diminishing your range
All Vehicles:
- Drive in ECO
- Ensure you enable ECO mode which will stop the engine when the vehicle is idling and will encourage more gradual acceleration
More weight uses more fuel:
- Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle. The additional luggage will create greater exertion from the vehicle, using more fuel
Gentle Driving
- Smooth gradual acceleration uses less fuel than quickly accelerating. If you are driving a manual vehicle think about what gear you are in. Moving through the gears more quickly will keep revs lower and use ore fuel
Leave a gap:
- Leaving a gap in front of you is not only safer but allows you to let the car brake naturally without adding any wear and tear on the brakes
Read our handy articles and follow us on LinkedIn for helpful tips throughout the seasons.
How can Athlon help you?
Mobility is about moving from A to B. Is there any reason it should be more complicated than that? Let us know where you want to go. We look forward to getting you there.