BRENTWOOD, England – Safestyle UK, a leading independent double-glazing suppler, has added 139 diesel-engined Focus and Mondeo models to its 400-strong fleet.

Based in Bedford, Safestyle chose the Ford models because of their 'green' credentials.

ING Car Lease is supplying the new cars on contract hire, with Focus replacement due after 3.5 years and the higher-mileage Mondeos running on three-year contracts.

Having determined that the Ford cars would meet all its requirements while also appealing to its drivers, the company contracted ERA Fleet Cost Management to review the marketplace for improved cost and service.

"The key driver was getting competitively-priced contract-hire rentals," said Sean Bingham, ERA's Principal Consultant. "Safestyle had already decided it wanted Ford’s new Auto-Start-Stop technology, for its improved fuel economy and reduced CO₂ emissions. It also believed Ford was the most appropriate manufacturer in terms of fit for its business."

The 115PS 1.6 TDCi Duratorq start/stop powertrain gives the Focus CO₂ emissions levels of 109g/km, combined with fuel economy of 67.3 mpg (combined cycle). For the Ford Mondeo Edge, as ordered by Safestyle, CO₂ emissions are 114g/km and fuel economy 65.6mpg.

Safestyle's sales staff cover 40,000 miles a year, operating nationwide.

Steve Lambert, Safestyle UK fleet transport manager said: “We opted for the new Ford range to give our drivers the best drive possible when out on business. These vehicles will also help our company with our ongoing campaign for CO₂ and energy-consumption reduction.”