Fuel Card News Motoring Updates: Van Excellence scheme expands

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) is offering van operators two brand new training courses, the Certificate of Excellence for Van Operators and the Certificate of Excellence for Passenger Van Operators.

The Van Excellence scheme was launched in 2010 by the FTA to promote high standards of van operation and driving by accrediting operators against an industry code of good practice. The Van Excellence Code is written with advice and support from many of the UK's best van fleets and represents an ideal basis for the safe and legal operation of vans and light commercial vehicles (LCVs).

The two new courses cover vehicle maintenance systems, administration, driver licensing, securing of loads, speed limits and limiters, driver identification, behaviour and competence.

Mark Cartwright, FTA's Head of Vans and LCVs, said: "Any organisation operating vehicles as part of its business activity must ensure the safety of drivers and the public, as failure to do so can have serious consequences. These courses will provide van operators with a wealth of best practice guidance for operating safely, legally and efficiently and are designed to help raise standards across van operations."

Drivers undertaking the courses will be assessed at the end and, if they pass, will receive an FTA Certificate of Excellence which is valid for three years.

Fleet management provider LeasePlan is the latest partner of the Van Excellence scheme and will promote the courses to its customers.

Mark Lovett, LeasePlan’s Head of Commercial Vehicles, said: “We are delighted to realise this opportunity to partner with Van Excellence. Their own high standards mirror our commitment to providing the best possible quality for our customers. Acceptance as a partner represents recognition of the ongoing hard work that has been put in by the LCV team.”

In other news, the average price of used LCVs was up £99 in July 2012 compared to this time a year ago.

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