Fleets should not overlook the SMR advantages mobile mechanics can offer during the coronavirus pandemic, says Epyx.

Fleet operators and company car drivers can continue to access emergency vehicle repair and maintenance services as some garages and workshops remain open during the lockdown.

While some SMR work unavoidably requires a workshop visit, mobile mechanics offer a high degree of capability, says Tim Meadows, vice-president and commercial director of Epyx

He added: “While a relatively large number of workshops are staying open through the crisis, it seems to us that mobile has an important role to play at the moment in supporting those on the frontline.

“Firstly, for fleets that are involved in delivering essential services and transporting key workers, mobile can provide the means for more flexible SMR provision, ensuring that vehicles stay roadworthy that might otherwise be difficult to maintain and repair.

“Someone who has been working straight through for days on end can have work carried out at their home when they finally get some time off, while another person who is unavoidably working every day can have it done at their place of employment.

“Secondly, for people that are self-isolating, mobile means their vehicle can be kept in roadworthy condition while reducing the potential risk of infection to themselves.”

Fleet News yesterday reported that Rivus Fleet Solutions, formerly known as BT Fleet Solutions, has implemented a range of processes to ensure it continues to deliver its services to customers during the coronavirus pandemic.

To keep operations running, measures have been introduced throughout its garage network to minimise the risk of infection for staff and customers. These have ensured service levels have been “normal”, said the company.