A MAJOR attack on the fleet market is being launched by Chrysler Jeep Imports UK, spearheaded by the launch of a four-year free servicing offer on all vehicles supplied by nominated leasing companies. The importers' fleet programme - called Chrysler & Jeep Corporate Direct - sees the Dover-based company being the linchpin in a chain linking its 107 dealers with selected contract hire and leasing companies and top FTSE targets.

In the cut-throat battle for fleet business Chrysler Jeep Imports is launching the four-year/45,000 mile (petrol vehicles) and four-year/42,000 mile (diesel) free servicing offer to ensure competitive leasing rates. Initially the free servicing will only be available on vehicles supplied by a dozen leasing companies - BCH Vehicle Management, Godfrey Davis, VELO, Black Horse Vehicle Management, CW Lease, Whitehouse Motor Finance, Automotive Leasing, Automotive Strategy, GE Woodchester Belfast, Swan National, Caffyns Motor Contracts and Marshall Leasing.

However, Chrysler said the offer would be available as part of a wider package to other interested fleets, and it will soon increase the list of leasing suppliers by a further 10 companies carefully selected to reflect both a geographical spread and a history of hiring executive sector vehicles.

With Chrysler Jeep Imports UK paying its dealers the full retail rate for all standard services for up to four years per vehicle - valued at £660 for the Chrysler Neon to more than £1,000 for the Chrysler Voyager and Jeep Grand Cherokee - the importer is potentially putting millions of pounds behind its fleet attack. As a result of the new deal and lengthy conversations with the initial 12 leasing partners, Chrysler Jeep Imports claims monthly rentals on vehicles have been slashed by '£20-£30 a month and sometimes even more'. With a no-discounting pledge and a focus on strong residual values the importer is confident the package will be reflected in class-leading wholelife costs.