Diesel hybrids ‘jump off page’ for BIK

Peugeot will sell around 1,100 diesel hybrid models this year, around 300-400 less than it originally planned.

That’s down to the length of time it takes for a company to understand the new technology, although one in four 3008s now sold to leasing providers are hybrids.

Robson concedes: “They are more successful in companies with a CO2-band policy than they are in a wholelife cost policy.

"The high price means we have grading issues to get on the list but once they are there, they jump off the page for BIK – it’s less than a Renault Clio.”

Peugeot employs trainers to visit fleets and show their drivers how to get the maximum performance from the hybrid.

So far, they have visited around 40 customers.

The hybrids are also getting Peugeot on to new fleets where it often replaces another manufacturer due to its ability to supply a full range of cars.

‘Serious ramifications for residuals’

The annual sales data from the SMMT is showing a false position, according to Phil Robson.

Pack deals, rental business and heavy discounting are unsettling the market by increasing the volume of delivery-mileage cars.
“This is a risk for the industry and some manufacturers,” says Robson.

“There will be serious ramifications on residual values in the coming 12 to 24 months.”

The cause is partly down to challenges in mainland Europe, where many markets are experiencing a significant downturn in new car sales.

“The UK is the soft option because of its relative stability and manufacturers are plugging their market share,” Robson adds.

“But it will come back to haunt them in the used market.”