Why Knowles Fleet?
Our Online Systems
We have developed our online systems to help drivers with the selection of a new car and also to provide support during the contract and make communication easier. To do this we have the client facing driver home page where they can request and receive quotes and manage their car through mileage reporting, accessing P11ds, reviewing their contract and tracking MOT and other renewal dates. All email correspondence is displayed on the home page so that drivers have a permanent record of actions. The home page is updated from our management module and all actions and progress we undertake is recorded and displayed.
The system has automated processes for all routine operations with email confirmation. Each stage of the renewal process and progress on the new car delivery is automated; tax disc notifications and MOT reminders are sent out in good time and mileage return reminders are sent out fortnightly to all driver over three months behind. Drivers are invited to replace their car six months in advance and automated chase ups are sending at increasingly frequent intervals to avoid extensions and reduce lead times.
What Is Not Automated?
Automation significantly reduces administration and provides better information to drivers and clients. We will not automate problem solving and the giving of good advice but automation allows us to dedicate more of our time for this purpose. We aim to provide the very best technical help and driver support to your employees on a personal basis.
We only automate the routine day to day business that distracts us from our core purpose of providing help and support. In addition we can devote more time to contract management instead of chasing mileage returns. Making sure that the driver makes the correct contribution for their private use and ensuring that the business mileage allowances are adjusted to reflect actual mileage will significantly reduce costs. On average, every mile correctly accounted for will save 5p on contract hire rates and 12p on fuel reimbursement; this mounts up when the contract mileage of a 100 car fleet is 1,500,000 miles per annum.
Independent Management Company
As your fleet management company we will take care of all your travel needs and tailor make an ideal scheme for you.
We are regulated and approved by all the relevant authorities including FCA, LRQA, DTi, etc.
Customer Service
We take pride in getting to know our clients, their drivers and their needs. We provide them with the highest level of personal service focusing on attention to detail.
We provide comprehensive accident management as well as breakdown and recovery services. Our full online services are efficient, easy to use and save time and money.
Customer Loyalty & Satisfaction
40% of our clients have been with us for more than ten years and we have repeatedly retained their business through competitive tendering. Our longest standing client has been with us for 20 years.
Our driver surveys shows that we achieved consistently high scores in all areas. 98% said we were helpful, polite and courteous and 97% said our scheme documentation was easy to understand.
Peace Of Mind
We act entirely on your behalf; we will resolve all lease car problems and deal with queries from suppliers. We will check and approve all invoices and challenge all recharges on your behalf. All orders and invoices are in your name which provides transparency and protection against profiteering.
Value For Money
We are the only truly independent company in our field; we are free to recommend the scheme and supplier that best suits your needs and your budget.
Anyone can provide a low cost service and it is relatively easy to provide a high quality service with an unlimited budget; but it takes exceptional management to provide a high quality service at a low cost.
Knowledge & Experience
We are passionate about fleet management and dedicated to providing you with the best scheme available. We keep up to date with all the manufacturers, suppliers, industry experts and new legislation. Our employees have collective experience of over 280 years and on average 8 years of service.
Proven Track Record
Knowles Associates are the longest established NHS fleet management company. We introduced our first scheme in 1986 and we have been in the forefront of innovation and development ever since. We have more NHS clients and manage more cars than any other company.
We have managed fleets in the North East for over 15 years and made significant savings with no increase in our fees.
Maximum Choice
Knowles Associates offer the widest choice of vehicles, leasing companies and insurers. We also have a well established network of vehicle repairers, body shops and daily rental companies in your area.
We can provide outright purchase and contract hire over any period for new, nearly new or used cars. We provide short term hire, courtesy cars and demonstrators.
We provide three driver payment options; salary deduction with fuel included, salary deduction without fuel and salary sacrifice.
Technology & Security
We have developed the most advanced and relevant web based lease car scheme management software for the Public Sector. The system was designed specifically for NHS lease cars based on efficiency, convenience and economy. The system is approved by the ESR interface team and protected by our strict information governance and data protection policy.
Award Winning
Some of our clients have been awarded best in class recognition for carbon reduction and environmental initiatives. Our Grey Fleet scheme has been the benchmark for many fleets looking to reduce carbon, improve Duty of Care and save money.