FLEETS will save thousands of pounds in service and maintenance costs following the decision of PSA Peugeot Citroen to extend dramatically service intervals for cars and vans. The extensions have been achieved principally due to the long-life properties of new semi-synthetic engine oils and come into effect for all new vehicles registered after August 1, without affecting warranties.

They pre-empt Ford's radical move, announced at the Geneva Motor Show, to set service intervals for the new Escort-sized Focus at 15,000 miles when the car goes on sale in October. Peugeot claims fleets will save 30% on their servicing bills once the service intervals of all Peugeot petrol-engined vehicles extend to 20,000 miles and two years, from the current 9,000 miles and 12 months.

The increases in diesel service intervals move up to 10,000 miles/two years, from today's 6,000 miles, and up to 12,000 miles for its new high pressure, direct injection common rail diesel engines which are due for launch in the autumn. Peugeot dealers will offer fleet vehicles free 'while-you-wait' level checks and top-ups in between services with no appointment necessary and no charge for labour or lubricants, to ensure maintenance is properly sustained.