DEUTSCHE Bank has expanded its pan-European leasing and fleet management operation with the launch of DFS Automotive Portugal.

The new company promises to save Portuguese fleets 20% on their running costs through the development of 'technologically advanced, transparent and efficient fleet management solutions' for employers and their drivers.

DFS Automotive, a partner in the Interleasing alliance, estimates that there are 27,000 cars under third party fleet management (and thousands more on operating leases) in Portugal, and predicts that the market will grow by 35% in 2000, following a 40% increase in 1999, and a 33% expansion in 1998.

Luis Bandeira, managing director of DFS Automotive Portugal, underlined the company's commitment to Portuguese fleets with the promise of €30 million this year to develop new products and services.

DFS Automotive will offer a full range of fleet finance and management products and services, from finance lease to full service lease, vehicle acquisition, maintenance control, relief vehicle provision, fuel card management, accident management and used vehicle remarketing. (April 2000)