Recognising that different organisations might have very different objectives, we consider the most cost efficient funding method, whilst taking account of a fleet operator’s specific circumstances and wider objectives. Key areas that must always be considered however are:-

• whether it wishes to optimise cash flow or minimise costs?
• if the availability of credit may be an issue, either now or in the future?
• whether it is prepared to carry the risk of depreciation or wishes to transfer it to a third party?
• the full impact of taxation on the whole-life-cost.

Don’t choose company cars by reference to the monthly rental or the car’s list price. In many instances these have little bearing on the true cost of the car, as the whole life costs are heavily influenced by taxation and tax relief.

Using software we’ve developed we can help fleet operators to identify, compare and evaluate cars that might appeal to both a cost conscious fleet manager and a brand aware driver.

Ever increasing rates of company car tax have fuelled the take-up of cash allowances, and new legislation regarding optional remuneration arrangements might now prompt some employers to consider the withdrawal of the company car.

But as the company car represent an extremely valuable employee benefit it’s imperative that employers have a clear view of the respective role of the car and the cash allowance within their company car policy, and their financial and practical impact on both employers and employees.

Structuring an effective company car policy is a complex process which should be undertaken holistically and with the benefit of expert advice in order to maintain employee choice at the optimum cost to the employer.