Fleet maintenance budgets are being severely challenged as operators are forced to run vehicles for longer due to the new car supply issues.

ATS said new car shortages mean a renewed focus on managing out maintenance budgets

With no end in sight to the immediate lack of vehicle availability as a result of the semiconductor crisis, both fleets and leasing companies are having to juggle new car availability against extended rentals and increased maintenance work.

And since vehicle rental is also problematic, as the rental companies are also short of vehicles after defleeting during Covid lockdowns, tyre and maintenance provider ATS Euromaster said SMR budgets are being hit hard.

Jess Jones, director national fleets, explained: “What this means is a renewed focus on managing out maintenance budgets, particularly as many vehicles will require additional MOTs not originally envisaged at the commencement of the vehicle’s lifecycle.”

She added that, as a result, new approaches to SMR delivery were being actively considered.

“Many leasing companies send their customers to approved dealerships for servicing, although independent maintenance providers, such as ATS Euromaster, provide an equally thorough mechanical service at a more cost-effective option. Perhaps as important, we are also a one-stop-shop.

“For example, if a vehicle comes in for an MOT but after inspection requires new brakes to be roadworthy, we can get the appropriate authorisation to carry out the remedial work. This is particularly important for LCV fleets that need to keep downtime to a minimum. It helps with general fleet efficiency.”

ATS Euromaster is also ramping up its support for electric vehicles to ensure it’s ready for the rising demand and that ATS Euromaster technicians can service the technological change from ICE to EV fleets.

The business said it’s constantly in touch with customers to understand their level of electric vehicle orders and delivery to driver times.

By understanding the likely volumes, ATS Euromaster centres will be able to prepare for the appropriate levels of support required, and the types and volumes of tyres to stock.

“With leasing EV order banks running at circa 40%, we’re ensuring our centres are fully prepared with correctly trained technicians to meet the growing number of electric vehicles that will require servicing,” finished Jones.