FLEETS struggling to cope with the complexities of congestion charging in London have been thrown a lifeline by Daimler-Chrysler Services Fleet Management.

The firm has launched a programme which includes a special bulletin to all its customers, giving details about the charging area, methods of payment, penalties and exemptions.

Rael Winetroube, DCSFM's sales and marketing director, said it had been prompted to offer customers advice on the issue because it affected every single business driver likely to regularly or occasionally visit the capital.

He added: 'There will be pressures created in the areas bordering the charging zone, both on roads and parking facilities. To avoid these, drivers could inadvertently slip inside the charging zone without knowing it, only to be faced by a heavy fine afterwards.

'Whatever we feel about London's charging policy, it is here with us now. We are making our customers fully aware of how it operates and we are available at all times to assist them in developing strategies to minimise the problems it may cause to their business.'