A new online tool that allows fleet decision-makers to predict individual vehicle real world fuel consumption has been introduced by Derwent Management Services (DMS).

The function, which produces a predicted budget based on the volume of fuel an individual car or van will use, is now included within TotalCost, the company’s online vehicle whole life cost operating tool.

Using a sliding scale, the tool enables fleet decision-makers to reduce the combined cycle MPG figure claimed by a motor manufacturer for any specific model by up to 25% and thus take account of individual driving styles, vehicle load, traffic conditions, wind resistance etc.

Additionally, the tool also enables fleet managers to adjust how much of the total mileage clocked up by employees is personal and how much is business to assist employers in calculating total fuel expenditure.

Jeff Edgar, director of business development at DMS, said: “TotalCost takes account of every single financial figure applicable to a company car and van during its corporate life and enables fleet decision-makers to build a truly complete cost picture.

“We have further enhanced TotalCost by adding the new function to enable fleet managers to more accurately predict real world fuel use. Fleet managers should know what MPG individual vehicles/drivers are achieving and they can then adjust accordingly from manufacturers’ combined cycle MPG figure which is already provided within TotalCost.

“Invariably, fleets that base fuel budgets on manufacturers’ claimed MPG figures will potentially be in for a nasty shock when bills materialise. Our enhanced tool enables businesses to more accurately forecast future fuel bills.”