Lex Autolease has launched the first of its new range of purpose built ‘Driveaway’ commercial vehicles.

The vehicles are pre-fitted with industry-specific internal fixtures and fittings such as racking and storage solutions and are held as stock.  With supply time averaging between 14 and 21 days, businesses benefit from shorter lead times and by not having to remove the vehicle from the road to undergo a separate conversion. 

Driveaway trade vans are initially available for the plumbing, electrical, joinery and general construction trades.  Lex estimates businesses can save up to 20 percent by ordering a Driveaway vehicle compared with the cost of leasing and converting a vehicle separately.  

Lex Autolease has partnered with manufacturers Vauxhall and Fiat and van racking company Tevo to launch the Driveaway product.  Customers can select from a range of industry-standard internal specifications and have these fitted to a wide choice of vehicles including the Fiat Cargo, Doblo and Scudo, and the Vauxhall Combo, Vivaro and Movano vans.    

Further Driveaway launches are planned later this year, including vehicles from additional manufacturers and bespoke internal specifications for minibuses and welfare vans.  Lex Autolease consultants will be available at this month’s Commercial Vehicle show to explain the Driveaway product in more detail at stand 5H90.

Marcus Puddy, commercial vehicles director at Lex Autolease, said: ‘We are pleased to launch this new and innovative solution.  With the ongoing pressure to manage costs and increase productivity, we are committed to providing businesses with the financial and operational solutions they need to keep moving. This service will enhance our overall offering, giving customers easy and affordable access to the essential equipment they need to fulfil their day to day requirements.  

“The feedback we received from customers during the trial period was very positive.  In particular the absence of long vehicle lead-times which typically accompanies van conversions, has proved to be a highly attractive proposition for businesses.”