Ford is supplying 343 Ford Transit Custom vans to the AA to join its fleet of patrol vehicles.
They will raise Ford’s share of the 2,100-vehicle AA patrol fleet to more than 50 per cent.
Ford secured the order from the AA following an exhaustive analysis of whole-life costs. Sarah Dopson, AA head of fleet, said: “We looked at all the usual factors – acquisition price, depreciation, servicing and maintenance costs, running costs including fuel economy – and the Transit Custom came out top. Deliveries of the new vehicles will be complete by November, in time for our busiest period for call-outs.”
Prior to delivery, the Transit Custom vans – a mix of 310 and 330 L1 models – undergo conversion at a vehicle preparation specialist, which includes fitment of the AA’s new contract recovery trailer to allow the partial lift and recovery of broken-down vehicles, a dual battery system, specialist racking systems and of course the organisation’s distinctive yellow livery.
Ian Watson, Ford’s direct sales manager, said: “Ford is already supplying around 3,000 cars a year to the AA Driving School, and we are very pleased that the organisation has recognised the Ford Transit Custom’s many attributes, including the important financial ones. They look eye-catching in AA livery and will prove a reassuring roadside sight for AA members.”
BCA is reporting a strong second quarter of 2014 in the used commercial vehicle sector.
Average values for commercial vehicles continue to rise, as Quarter 2 2014 posted the highest headline figure on record according to BCA’s latest figures.
LCVs averaged £5,460 at BCA over Quarter 2 2014, up by £583 (11.9%) over the twelve month period. Average age has fallen marginally over the year, while mileage has increased by around 450 miles on average over the same period.
