EXPRESS Newspapers has launched a new motoring scheme for its employees.

The company is using the expertise of fleet solutions company Lombard, which is providing what it describes as a personal motoring product to about 120 of the firm’s company car users.

The scheme includes an employee car ownership programme (ECOP) and a contract hire package.

As part of the scheme, contract hire packages are offered on Honda’s petrol-electric Civic. The first batch of nine cars have been delivered to staff and the new scheme will be rolled out across the business as existing car contracts come to an end.

Lombard business development manager Guy Small said: ‘Personalised motoring schemes like this are becoming more and more popular because of the flexibility and tax benefits they offer, while enabling companies to still meet duty of care obligations regarding a safe and well maintained car fleet for employees.’

Express Newspapers HR manager Maria Bache added: ‘The purchase of such a fleet makes financial sense particularly in terms of congestion charging and also offers staff an eco-friendly and stylish way to travel.’