Does FML work for commercial vehicles?
The attraction of full maintenance leasing (FML) has always been the availability of capital and the inclusion of risk-free maintenance, tyres and residual values. Does FML benefit commercial vehicle operators?
Commercial vehicle usage is often characterised by extended usage, which is driven by the high cost of replacement and a belief in continuous and efficient operation. However, there is a point of optimal cost efficiency, which, in order to be calculated correctly, requires extensive operating and lifecycle cost data.
Fleet leasing companies have access to this data, which they routinely apply in their replacement timing calculations.
They will lease a commercial vehicle for up to eight or ten years and/or 650 to 900 000 km, depending on usage, but will only extend leases for longer periods after an extensive inspection and cost analysis.
The objective of fleet leasing companies is to reduce costs by optimising economic lifecycle costs, minimising major component failure and maximising up time, reliability and image.
For the operator, a FML for a truck includes risk-free maintenance of the vehicle and fitted equipment, with the option of tyres and tyre management.
Importantly, the leasing company will schedule and book services, certificate of fitness (COF) testing, relicensing and provide roadside assistance and replacement vehicles. Skilled and interactive operational support is also provided.
Extensive cost analysis will be undertaken before a commitment is made. An additional benefit of FML is that gains in efficiency result in reduced fleet size.
Visit www.fleetsolutions.co.za to locate suppliers of FML services for commercial vehicles.