A new website is set to revolutionise the way up to 100,000 public sector vehicles are sourced and slash administration costs.

The innovation is the first public sector website of its kind in the UK and provides live comparative pricing information
straight from contract hire companies to users at the click of
a button.

The quotation system pulls live pricing information from each participating supplier’s websites, based on search criteria, to make comparison of prices easy and quick, although it does not extend to online ordering.

It is similar to private sector online price comparison sites but with the added benefit that contract hire suppliers have already completed a detailed centralised tender process, including visits and audits by fleet experts.

When public sector fleets sign up, their unique log-in details will also ensure the system is set up for their specific requirements.

Janette Cowburn, transport category manager for the NHS Purchasing and Supply Agency (NHS PASA), whose team developed and implemented the system, said: “Where time is always in short supply, this new technology is a real winner for suppliers and users alike.

"Compare this to the current system which can involve getting nine written quotes from suppliers, possibly every time a car is leased, and you realise just how beneficial it is.”

The website complements and supports last year’s pan-government lease car and car-derived vans framework agreement.

The NHS, which has had access to a similar buying system for several years, has a fleet of about 31,000 vehicles, while the total public sector fleet is estimated to be 100,000 vehicles.

The framework agreement and new website could bring a
£10 million saving for public sector fleets.

Peter Miller, from NHS PASA’s e-procurement team said: “This new website provides a level playing field for suppliers of lease cars to the entire public sector.

“The range of vehicles, vehicle options, lease terms and conditions is vast – but all are catered for so that in a matter of seconds purchasers can receive a quotation from all participating suppliers.”

The system also provides extensive guidance on issues ranging from taxation to CO2 emissions and fuel types.

The current members of the framework agreement are Arnold Clark Finance, Arval, Automotive Leasing, ING Car Lease, Lex Vehicle Partners, Lloyds TSB Autolease, Lombard Vehicle Management, Masterlease and TCH Leasing.