AN IT solutions company can lay claim to being the owner of the world's largest fleet of Renault Avantimes.

Hampshire-based Taylor Made Computer Solutions has purchased nine of the vehicles in a deal worth more than £200,000 at showroom prices. The company said it specifically chose the Avantime, which has ended production, for its unusual looks, as well as the overall comfort and space.

Nigel Taylor, managing director for Taylor Made Computer Solutions, said: 'The Avantime particularly appealed as it perfectly matches our company philosophy with its distinctive style, high quality and practical ergonomics.'

The fleet of Renault Avantimes will be used by Taylor Made's IT engineers carrying technical kit and also when delivering hardware such as PCs. Taylor added: 'We were immediately impressed with the Avantime, not only for its style, but also with its excellent performance and how easy it is to drive. 'We're certainly getting noticed driving the Avantime, and the fact that Renault has decided to stop production makes our fleet even more unique.

'If ever a car was 'tailor made' for Taylor Made this is it. I never imagined I'd own not just the UK's, but the world's, largest fleet of one particular car so I am really pleased to be making that claim in relation to the Avantime and our company.'

Each of Taylor Made's Avantimes has its own individual number and is in the company's trademark blue. Re-spraying was handled by Portsmouth based Renault dealer Liningtons, which also arranged the supply deal.