Councils across Scotland are set to benefit from a new £48 million contract that will help them source the parts needed to effectively run their extensive vehicle fleets.

The new Scotland Excel framework will give local authorities quick access to a range of companies that can supply and deliver parts needed for their vehicles.

A total of 33 suppliers have been awarded onto the new third generation framework that has recently gone live.

It will be in place for four years and has seven lots:

1. Parts for light and heavy vehicles
2. Auto electric parts
3. Hydraulics
4. Replacement sweeper brushes
5. Replacement glass
6. Consumables
7.  Parts of specialist vehicles

The framework also has sustainability as a key focus with suppliers committing to a range of measures including recycling of waste, waste fuel, oils and oil filters; uplifting old batteries for recycling; adopting the latest model delivery vehicles with Euro 5/6 engines and limiting delivery vehicles to 60 mph to reduce fuel consumption.

Councillor Mike Holmes, Convener of Scotland Excel, said: “Council vehicles play an important role in delivery of local services to communities and so I welcome our new third-generation vehicle parts framework.

"Council fleets are extensive, covering a range of manufacturers and ranging from cars and light vans to 44-tonne refuse collection vehicles – so the parts needed to support the effective running of these are wide ranging.

“Our contract recognises this and has been structured to help councils get the best possible value, while being able to quickly and efficiently receive the parts they need from suppliers that have gone through a detailed tender process.

"This framework will bring value for money, has sustainability at its core and is good for business with 23 suppliers small to medium enterprises.”

The new framework also includes a range of community benefit pledges from suppliers including recruiting new staff and apprentices, offering work experience placements and employability workshops.