THE Mersey Docks and Harbour Company has struck a three-year solus badge deal with Peugeot expected to be worth £1 million in the first year.

The company will take delivery of more than 100 cars next year and expects to order between 60 and 70 vehicles a year. The vehicles were purchased outright and will be used by the company's operational drivers and managers.

Hilary Barry, fleet manager, said the key to the decision had been the low carbon dioxide emissions of the manufacturer's common-rail diesel engine.

Barry said: 'Peugeot impressed us with the fuel savings their HDi technology could offer and the tax savings the HDi engine's low emission profile will bring for our drivers.'