FLEET operators will increasingly reject company cars which have only 12 months manufacturer warranty, in favour of marques which offer three year warranties according to new survey entitled 'The Fleet and Business Car Servicing Market'. The survey claims that the length of warranty will grow dramatically in importance as fleet service and maintenance costs soar over the next five years.

Report author Robert McNab said: 'Not only do some fleet operating companies want a three year warranty as standard across all vehicle makes, but the larger fleet companies are also seeking to obtain three years breakdown assistance and European cover as part of the warranty package.'

The report is based on interviews and focus study groups with 160 fleet managers, as well as representatives of franchised dealerships, independent garages and fast fit outlets, and was produced by Sewells International, part of EMAP Automotive, independent market researcher MFBI and was sponsored by PHH Vehicle Management Services.