French Leasing Company Favors Hybrids to Reduce Carbon Footprint

ALD Automotive, a French fleet managing and operational car leasing company, has seen an increase in the number of plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) ordered by its employees.

The leasing firm is a strong advocate of alternatively fueled vehicles and its own fleet has seen an increase in the number of PHEVs from 13% to 67%. This shift toward PHEVs has reduced the company's carbon footprint.  The average CO2 for ALD's company cars has fallen from 109g/km to 64.9g/km, Fleet News reported.

Fleet consultant Mark Evans said, "We have long been extolling the benefits of Alternative Fuel vehicles as company cars and many of our employees have embraced the fact that a PHEV is the ideal solution that fits with their driving habits. They are keen to do their bit for the environment, while leading the charge for others to follow suit." The Kia Niro with CO2 emissions of 29g/km has been one of the most popular models among ALD employees.

Last year ALD conducted a major real-world trial of PHEVs, and many of the company car drivers who took part decided, based on their experience, to make the switch for their next company car. "Our trial proved two key findings" says Evans, "that when applied to suitable driver profiles and used correctly, through regular charging, PHEVs are not only viable but desirable as company cars."

To keep pace with the growing number of electric vehicle drivers, ALD has doubled the number of charging points available at its Bristol head office. A number of drivers are taking advantage of the government home charger grant, and others are planning to use a three-pin plug to charge them at home.