FLEETS could have their vehicles fitted with tyre pressure monitors for a fraction of the costs of electronic gadgets.

Company vehicles are being targeted by Auto-Unique, which has launched Pressure Guard, that replaces the dust caps on tyre valves.

When the caps detect a loss of pressure of more than 2psi, a red warning flag is displayed. The caps are available for £12.50 for a set of four.

Auto-Unique claims fleet operators would have the benefit of an obvious indicator showing whether tyres are being run at the correct pressure, thus aiding safety and lowering running cost.

Graham Bishop, managing director of Auto-Unique, said: 'We have established an exclusive partnership with Visscher Caravelle which is marketing Pressure Guard to fleets.

'Up until this point we have focused on presenting Pressure Guard to leasing companies and our partnership with Visscher is aimed at converting the positive responses we have had into long- term business. There are two different potential benefits to fleet operators. Some have responded only to the potential savings from reduced tyre wear and fuel consumption.

'Conversely others have been much more interested in the safety benefits and this latter platform is fast becoming more motivating to fleet operators.'