CIVIL engineering firm Morgan=est is moving out of company cars in a bid to cut the tax bills of its high-mileage drivers and reduce administration costs.

The firm, which has a 350- vehicle fleet, estimates the move could produce savings for the company and staff of £400,000 a year. The firm is offering staff the chance to take a cash option, or move into an employee car ownership scheme, operated by Opticar.

Morgan=est is responsible for large projects including British Airport Authority's new Terminal 5 building at Heathrow Airport.

Finance director John Bright said: 'Opticar is providing a completely hands-free solution. We have no involvement in the cars. Its internet software combined with a reduction in our administration is a key factor. The reaction from staff has been very positive.'

Morgan=est has already offered drivers the chance to opt-out of the benefit of free fuel for private mileage, as increases in tax have made it worthless for drivers who only cover average private mileages.