The new card allows companies to load a set number litres on to an account and top up via phone or direct debit when the credit is running low. It leverages the Keyfuels network, meaning Flexi-pay is accepted at more than 1,600 forecourts and supermarkets across the UK.

Andy Smith, manager of Hull-based Fuelmate, said the Flexi-pay fuel card enables businesses to budget and track their fuel spend far more precisely than using cash, as well as providing a single invoice detailing all transactions, meaning drivers don’t have to collect and submit fuel receipts.

The Flexi-pay card can also be made driver or vehicle specific, enabling business owners to control how the card is used and by whom, and set spending limits.

Mr Smith explained: “Flexi-pay has been introduced into our extensive fuel card portfolio to help new companies with little or no credit history and established companies with a poor credit history get access to a fuel card.

“It means they can get access to all the benefits of a fuel card – cheaper prices, better financial planning, no need for cash, a single, weekly invoice – and is available to any company that spends more than £500 per month on diesel, regardless of their credit history.”

Customers using the product are notified by text or email when the account balance drops to 25%, 15% and 5% of their estimated weekly volume.

When companies had used Flexi-pay for 12 months or so, they could become eligible for a more traditional fuel card.

Smith added: “Once companies have established a reputable trading history with us, they are far more likely to pass a credit check and then they can decided to change to a different product if they wish. We offer a comprehensive range of fuel cards from leading brands such as BP, Shell and Esso, and tailor the right solution to suit just about any kind of business.”