The Van Leasing News Blog from Crusader Vans

High cost of purchasing a low carbon van

noreply@blogger.com (Dave @ Crusader) — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:23:00 +0000

According to a survey commissioned by the Department of Transport (DfT), the cost of buying a low carbon van is the main barrier to the slow take-up among commercial vehicle buyers.

Questionnaires were sent out by the Government department in the summer of last year, to owners of both low carbon and non-low carbon vans. The results were a little confusing, but some interesting results were found. It may be surprising to know that ignorance was not a contributory factor, as 65% of those owners with a non-low carbon vehicle revealed that they were aware of the ‘environmentally friendlier’ options.

The main reason for not buying a low-carbon van was reported as being the cost. 65% of those surveyed conveyed this as being the main deterrent. When quizzed as to what might be an incentive to review their opinions and switch to the ‘greener’ technology, reducing the cost of purchase came out on top, followed closely by reduced operating cost. Some people were also worried about the performance of these vehicles, including the reliability of components such as the battery life of electric vehicles.

Of course, what is being discussed is the purchase cost of the vehicles, which is always going be a little on the steep side. One of the best alternatives to purchasing a new van, is to examine the options for van leasing. There are many advantages to leasing, including lower monthly cost, and a trade-in for a new van at the end of the contract period. Leasing contracts also generally throw in the maintenance as part of the deal, and the beauty of this is that you will always have the latest technology at your fingertips.

Finally the survey reported no difference in the weekly distance travelled by those operating low carbon vans compared to other less environmentally-friendly vehicles.

Fiat introduce a new version of eco:Drive system for Commercial Van operators

noreply@blogger.com (Dave @ Crusader) — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:39:00 +0000

The Fiat in-car system designed to help motorists with their fuel economy, thereby reducing carbon emissions, is about to make an impression in the van market, and ultimately the Fiat van leasing market.

The new eco:Drive system has proved popular for Fiat, attracting positive interest from approximately 34,000 motorists, who were able to provide information for over four million journeys. This information has been collated and analysed during a measured period of time, with the information stored on a dedicated website. The system has the ability to manage the mileage and fuel consumption retrospectively, and as a consequence, is able to offer suggestions on how to improve sustainable driving behavior for fleet van drivers.

This new feature is designed to be compatible with all Fiat commercial vehicles which use the Blue&Me platform, including the Grande Punto and Doblo Cargo vans.

The eco:Drive system optimizes fuel consumption and the safety of the van or car fleets by measuring the mileage data including distance, time, and fuel consumption. The resulting information is then displayed to drivers individually or collectively across the company. The database is automatically updated by this system, and includes information on management costs and the mileage count for each driver. The beauty of the whole system is that it can take the information stored and evaluate the driving behavior of an individual, and their impact on fuel consumption, and offer advice on how to become more ‘eco friendly’.

Fiat designed the system in 2008, with the aim of helping motorists understand the impact their driving habits had on the environment, particularly in relation to fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. With the information that they were able to gather, their intention was help their customers to change their bad driving habits. Fiat have claimed resounding success with this system, and estimate an approximate CO2 saving of 2,600 tonnes since its introduction to the market.

eco:Drive has received many international awards including Best Digital Technology (Guardian Innovation Award 2009), Best Use of Innovative Technology (CLIO Awards 2009), European Product Innovation Award (Frost&Sullivan 2009), Green Champion (International Green Apple Awards 2009) and Cyber Lyons – Grand Prix (Cannes Festival).

Andrew Humberstone, managing director of Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland, said: "Individual drivers making small savings can have a positive effect in reducing the overall fleet carbon footprint and generate significant costs savings across the business, and eco:Drive can help with this goal."

Free to download and use (www.fiat.com/ecodrive), eco:Drive Fleet is available for all Fiat vehicles (500, 500C, Punto Evo, Bravo, Qubo, new Doblò) and for Fiat Professional commercial vehicles equipped with the Blue&Me platform (Grand Punto Van, Fiorino and Doblò Cargo).

RAC iPhone App

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 14:22:00 +0000

The RAC, the UK’s longest established motoring organisation, have launched a FREE application for users of the Apple iPhone and the Google Android mobile phones.
The app accesses your device’s GPS to calculate your precise location. It shows a start and finish point of any congestion in your vicinity, which is overlaid onto Google Maps. The level of detail will give motorists the most precise and accurate view of live traffic conditions to the UK’s roads that is currently available on a mobile phone app. The app utilises up-to-the-minute traffic updates from Trafficlink, the UK’s leading provider of real time traffic information.
RAC's director of sales and marketing, Saj Arshad, told Pocket-lint: "RAC's first app is a natural companion for motorists who frequently feel thwarted by the growing problem of congestion on the UK's roads. Given the popularity of our Route Planner online, we know motorists trust RAC when it comes to all things motoring. We're delighted to build on this legacy with a free app to help motorists plan their journeys using live traffic information".
For more information on RAC’s mobile traffic app and to download the app for free, please visit the iTunes App Store or Android Market.

The New Renault Master and Vauxhall Movano…

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:29:00 +0000

Renault and Vauxhall are launching new versions of the Master and Movano which are due for release April/May 2010.

The new Master and new Movano aim to become the segment's benchmark for comfort thanks to a complete reappraisal of the driving position and controls, enhanced visibility and the availability of a raft of comfort-enhancing features normally associated with passenger cars.
They will be available in front- and rear-wheel drive with four wheelbase and three roof height options. Load space ranges from 8.0m3 to 17.0m3 with load lengths of 2,583mm to 4,383mm, payloads up to 2,260kg and gross vehicle weights of 2.8t, 3.3t, 3.5t and 4.5t. The UK models, however, will not include any 2.8-tonners.
Under the bonnet, a new generation of 2.3 CDTi four-cylinder common-rail diesel engines combines strong performance with low operating costs. Three power outputs are available: 100PS/285 Nm, 125 PS/310 Nm and 150PS/350 Nm. All engines come with a six-speed gearbox as standard and are Euro 4 or Euro 5 (with DPF) compliant. The 125PS and 150PS versions can be coupled with the semi-auto Techshift transmission.
Renault has already released a full price list and its entry level model, the front-wheel drive MM33 100hp Euro 4, has a basic price of £20,795. The range-topping rear-wheel drive LML45 150hp Euro 5 with twin rear wheels will set you back £29,345. A full line-up of Crew Vans are available from launch, which will coincide with the CV Operators Show at the NEC, Birmingham (13-15 April).

Electric Vans from Crusader!

noreply@blogger.com (Dave @ Crusader) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 18:05:00 +0000

Aixam Mega Electric
Crusader Vans is now able to offer an electric commercial vehicle, The Aixam Mega LWB Electric Van. With a load capacity of 3m3 and the ability to take normal sized pallets (despite its compact size) it is well suited to urban stop-start deliveries.
Mega Multitrucks are the UK’s market leading ultra-light commercial electric vehicles, with many users in large organisations such as local authorities, campus universities and research establishments, and on large-scale manufacturing sites.
All electric vehicles are exempt from the London Congestion Charge. They also qualify for free parking in some car parks and on the road locations. For business users, purchase of electric vehicles can attract a variety of grants.
Here are just a few benefits of owning a Mega electric vehicle:
• Low running costs
• Zero emissions
• Tax incentives for business users
• Road tax and London Congestion Charge exempt
• Silent in operation
• Nearly 100 per cent recyclable
The Aixam Mega Electric Van is available in white, blue or silver and comes with a 2 year warranty. Follow this link for more information on electric van leasing. It is recommended that batteries and all systems are checked out at 6 monthly intervals.

Funding Solutions for SME’s

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 15:45:00 +0000

It has been reported that over 1 million vehicles will be registered to fleet and leasing companies this year. Fleet managers, especially those in small and medium sized businesses will be looking to secure finance for their new vehicles. However it appears they will be facing a tough battle, with underwriting criteria still very strict and funders such as Lombard and Hitachi Capital Solutions both pulling out of the broker market altogether.

The BVRLA is hopeful that its members will catch more of the small fleet business. “The SME market has traditionally lagged behind other business sectors in its use of vehicle leasing but we think this could change in 2010. Some of our leasing broker members have reported record levels of SME business in recent months. As some small and medium businesses struggle to access enough affordable finance from their existing lenders they may well turn to leasing” said John Lewis BVRLA chief executive.

Here at Crusader Vans not only do we have the backing from the BVRLA as an appointed leasing broker but we also have several different funding options including ING, Commercial Vehicle Finance, LEX Autolease, Lombard and Arval PHH. Give one of our experienced sales team a call to discuss the different funding options available on Free Phone 0800 955 5055.

Crusader Vans in the Daily Star!

noreply@blogger.com (Dave @ Crusader) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 13:46:00 +0000

Here at Crusader Vans we are always looking for new ways to let our customers know that we have some of the very best offers around. Not only do we have some excellent funding rates starting from just 3.98% flat but we are one of the companies that actually carry our own stock.

Much of our time towards the back end of 2009 was spent analysing sales figures and crunching numbers to see exactly what we needed to do to maintain our excellent growth rate and of course one of the most important areas to concentrate on is the supply of physical units. At Cursader Vans, we pride ourselves on ordering enough stock to arrive at the right time to meet our customers needs. This, coupled with our excellent discounts, puts us firmly at the top of the tree when it comes to being able to supply the right van at the first time of asking.

We are so confident of our pricing and stock availability, we have put our hands into our pockets and placed a half page advert in todays Daily Star! Safe to say the phone hasnt stopped ringing!

If you want more information on anything in the advert or on a vehicle that you cant see, please give us a call as we are able to supply almost all makes and model of commercial vehicle. Call us now on Free Phone - 0800 955 5055!

Nissan NV200 voted 'What Van?' Best Van 2010.

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 15:48:00 +0000

Commercial vehicle specialists ‘What Van?’ have voted Nissans New NV200 Light Commercial Vehicle, van of the year 2010.
The NV200 panel van has been targeted at the Hi-Cube panel van sector of the market, directly competing with the VW Caddy in terms of external size but with an internal size comparable to that of the Maxi version of the popular German van.

The Jury was particularly impressed by the fact that Nissan have created a compact light commercial vehicle that sets a new standard in terms of internal space in relation to the van’s external dimensions. The NV200 has also been praised for its versatility, fuel efficiency and value for money and has been received well since its launch in November 2009. The NV200 is at the forefront of Nissan’s plan to rejuvenate its light commercial vehicle range completely and move away from having its van catalogue dominated by re-badged Renaults. Next up will be a mid-sized vehicle to take on the Renault Trafic and Vauxhall Vivaro.

The platform for the NV200 is based on the tried and tested Micra car. It is 4,400mm long, 1,690mm wide and 1,860mm high. It has an internal load length of 2,044mm and can take two euro pallets. The top payload is 783kg and the NV200 grosses at 2,000kg. It can tow a braked trailer grossing at 1,100kg and an unbraked trailer grossing at 640kg.

ABS and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution come as standard on all models along with Brake Assist. The SE model has been designed for the driver who is looking for a little more comfort and refinement. It comes with electric windows, electric mirrors, remote central locking and a full steel bulk head.
Here at Crusader Vans, we like to make sure that we are on the ball with regards to new products and improved pricing.

For more information about Nissan van leasing and some great monthly finance deals follow this link or give us a call on 0800 955 5055!

Van sales are stabilising…

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 16:06:00 +0000

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), who are one of the largest and most influential trade associations in the UK, have released figures today that suggest van sales have started to recover.

“Although vans are down 36% on the rolling year, the 0.8% decline in November suggests registrations have stabilized. Heavy trucks, down 60% in November, are still suffering badly as a result of weak business confidence,” said SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt. “It is vital that government uses the Pre-Budget Report to sustain the early signs of recovery in consumer confidence and enhance the capital allowances system to boost business investment.”

Here at Crusader Vans we are going from strength to strength and as a team we endeavour to provide an exceptional level of service. We are able to offer some of the highest discounts on commercial vehicles along with fantastic finance rates, starting from as low as 2.99%. So what are you waiting for, why not give one of our dedicated sales team a call on 0800 955 5055!

Crusader Vans become BVRLA members!

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:48:00 +0000

Crusader Vans have become members of the BVRLA
After 18 months, Crusader Vans has finally become members of the BVRLA (British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association). Just so that you have some idea of how relevant the BVRLA is, they represent some 800 members who between them run more than two million vehicles and who buy 45% of all new vehicles sold in the UK. Our membership number is 1589 and we are very proud to call ourselves members.
So, why has it taken so long?
The BVRLA have very strict criteria to meet. Involvement in the industry does not automatically qualify us for membership. We have been through interviews with the board, our premises have been vetted by our local area rep, and we have had to prove to the BVRLA that we meet their required standard through our everyday working process.

Becoming a member of the BVRLA, gives us the credibility of belonging to a professional trade body. BVRLA members are quality assured and operate under a code of conduct. This gives you the customer the confidence that you are dealing with a reputable company and we will offer you the highest levels of service.

2010 Number Plates

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 12:35:00 +0000

Here at Crusader Vans we have inquisitive minds and have been wondering what the new number plates will look like in March 2010. We are currently on the ’59 plate prefix as of September 2009 but where will we go from March 2010......?

Registration plates on today’s vehicles were first changed in September 2001. The format since then has been two letters at the beginning known as ‘local memory tags’, followed by two numbers to indicate the year of registration, known as ‘age identifiers’, followed by three more elements known as the ‘random element’.
Number plates are changed every 6 months to indicate the half year using a 0 or a 5. For example the first half of 2009 is shown as 09 and the second half as 59.

So, what will happen when we move into double figures next year?
From March 2010 the age identifier will be 10, followed by 60 in September 2010. In March 2011 the age identifier will be 11, followed by 61 in September 2011.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) say this pattern will continue until all the permutations are exhausted. This is expected to be 2050.

Regardless of what type of number plate goes on your next new vehicle, make sure you speak to one of the sales team at Crusader Vans to get the very best price on next commercial vehicle. Call us FREE on 0800 955 5055!

VAT Increase

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 12:24:00 +0000

The standard rate of VAT was temporarily reduced to 15% on the 1st December 2008 and will return to 17.5% on the 1st January 2010. What will this mean for commercial vehicle sales?

Many people are under the misconception that if they order their new vehicle now but don’t take delivery until after the VAT increase on the 1/1/2010 then the vehicle will be at the old VAT rate of 15%. This however is untrue. The VAT rate is determined by the tax point which in the case of new vehicles is the delivery date. So even if you have paid for your vehicle in full but it is not delivered until after the VAT increase, you will need to pay the increased rate of VAT based on the date of delivery.

To avoid paying the higher rate of tax on any vehicle purchases it is important to place your new vehicle order as soon as possible so that delivery of your new vehicle can take place before 31/12/2009. The cut off point for vehicles to be delivered before January 2010 will probably be somewhere around the 10th December 2009.

Here at Crusader Vans we are able to help you save over 40% off the UK dealer list price on most makes of commercial vehicle, so why not place your order today and not only benefit from great discounts but also beat the VAT increase.

Fiat Scudos with Huge Savings

noreply@blogger.com (Dave @ Crusader) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:24:00 +0000

If you require a mid size van that is also economical, then the Fiat Scudo L1 H1 1.6HDi 90PS panel van has to be top of your shopping list. This is especially true if you spend the majority of your day doing stop/start town driving. Due to the lower engine size, less fuel is used each time you stop and start, keeping fuel consumption low and costs down.
Here at Crusader Vans, we like to think that we provide our customers with the best value for money. That’s why we have ordered a batch of the Fiat Scudo’s with a host of additional options. These include the dual passenger seat with passenger airbag, the Microsoft based Blue & Me Fiat hands free Bluetooth system as well as a full steel bulkhead. This brings our Scudos up to a very competitive spec with excellent prices!
New legislation brought in by the EU requires all company drivers who are asked by their employers to make or take calls whilst driving as part of the job to have a hands free method of calling. The Bluetooth system is in our opinion is the best method as it allows complete hands free integration with your existing van and phone. Some of the better options on the market are supplied by Parot who boast a range of different models from headsets to fully integrated audio solutions.

The Fiat BlueTooth kit, developed by Microsoft specifically for Fiat is hard wired into the vehicle so you can be sure of smooth and trouble free operation.

For more information on our current Scudo deals please click here or if you want to discuss a tailor made package please give us a call on 0800 955 5055.

Blog by Shane

Parking Fines - Some Information!

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:42:00 +0000

Parking fines; we seem to get them more and more these days!! However there is some justification to parking fines and restrictions although its hard to believe! Parking fines generate much needed revenue for local authorities to help pay for everything to do with our local road network. This can be things like new signs, pavement widening and repairing potholes. If we are foolish eneough not to adhere to parking restrictions then we cannot really complain when we recieve parking tickets!

Parking enforcement officers also play a very important role by helping to keep the roads and by-ways clear for any vehicles responding to emergency calls. This is of course of huge importance.

In general, parking infringements occur in the following ways. If you park on a public road and do not follow the parking instructions you could find yourself with a parking fine, or as it is officially known a fixed penalty notice or penalty charge notice. For many local authorities parking is not a criminal matter, and it is the responsibility of the council not the police to govern local parking policy and the enforcement of such regulations. However, failure to take responsibility for any parking infringement and subsequent penalties can result in the matter escalating to a criminal issue involving the police and the local magistrate’s court!
If you commit a parking offence where the police are responsible, a police officer or traffic warden can fix a penalty notice to your vehicle. The details of the offence will be on the notice along with the amount of the fine and the time frame in which to pay. If you pay within a certain time period, the amount you have to pay is reduced. If the local authority is responsible for the fixed penalty or penalty charge and you park where you shouldn’t, a local authority civil enforcement officer can fix a penalty notice to your vehicle, they can also send it to you. As above if you accept you were in the wrong, you can pay the amount they ask for and again if paid within a certain time frame the amount is reduced.
There are more than 70 reasons why you could be given a parking ticket. Some of the most common include parking on yellows lines, parking in residents parking areas without a permit and not displaying a valid ticket in a pay and display area.
The good news is there are ways of appealing most kinds of ticket if it was given unfairly or mistakenly. For more information contact you local Citizens Advice Bureau.

The Commercial Vehicle Show 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 08:20:00 +0000

The Commercial Vehicle Show held at the NEC in Birmingham, is Britain’s largest and most successful road transport event. The show in April 2010 will allow exhibitors and visitors to identify ways they could improve efficiency and maximise profits. It will focus on the road transport and logistics industries and is an ideal place for LCV drivers and LCV fleet operators.

Richard Gibbs, Managing Director of BPW confirms, “As a long time exhibitor of the show, we value the opportunity to meet so many of our customers, old and new, in a relatively short period and in a venue where they come to us. For operators, a business meeting place such as the 2010 CV Operator Show is a truly cost effective way to keep up to date with new developments while also meeting new suppliers.”

Not since the CV show in April 2008 has such a meeting place been available to exhibitors and visitors. This year’s show was cancelled by the Commercial Vehicle Show organizers, LLP, made up of the Road Haulage Association, the Society of Motor manufacturers and Traders, the trading company of the SOE (Society of Operations Engineers). It was cancelled due to the difficult economic climate, as vehicle manufacturers found it hard to commit time, money and resources to the show in an ever slowing market.

The organizers of this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show 2010 will look for more support from exhibitors and manufacturers to ensure the shows continued success.

Citroen LCV sales soar for September…

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 15:23:00 +0000

Figures published this week show that Citroen LCV have delivered one of there best ever September results, and have virtually matched its September 2008 LCV sales volume – finishing down just 0.31% in the month year on year; Just 9 registrations!

It has also been announced that 1 in 10 LCV’s sold in September were Citroen’s. With 9.74% share of the LCV market for the month, it would appear Citroen have had a pretty good month! Citroen commercial vehicles operation manager, Robert Handyside, commented “ The September sales figures demonstrate that Citroens overall LCV package is ultra competitive in today’s van market. Citroen has the UK’s most modern LCV range – with its associated fuel efficiency and emissions benefits - which puts the Company in an extremely strong position. “

Here at Crusader Vans we are able to offer fantastic discounts across the Citroen LCV range coupled with low finance rates starting from just 2.99% flat. Follow this link or give us a call on 0800 955 5055.

Scrappage Scheme To Be Extended!!

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:02:00 +0000

Lord Mandelson has announced that the UK scrappage scheme which originally started in May this year has been extended to cover a further 100,000 cars and vans. The £300m initiative had been due to end in February or when the limit of 300,000 vehicles being scrapped was reached. So far 227,750 orders have been placed through the scheme at a cost of £1,000 per vehicle. The extension means a total of £400m will have been invested into the scheme. There have been a couple of other changes to the scheme, the age qualification has been changed by six months to any car registered before 29 February 2000 and the minimum age of vans being scrapped has been cut from 10 years to 8 years.

One of the problems we see with the scrappage scheme is the vehicle must have a valid MOT. Why does a vehicle that is about to be scrapped need a valid MOT!!!! However, an even bigger problem is the discount is only off the full retail price?! Perhaps the government could announce that Crusader Vans can already help save over 40% off the UK dealer list price on most makes of commercial vehicles, therefore making Crusader Vans better value for money. So forget the government scrappage scheme and vote Crusader Vans!!!

To see our current range of money saving offers click here or give us a call on 0800 955 5055.

Citroen Nemo – The UK’s ‘Greenest’ Van – 84mpg!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Dave @ Crusader) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 08:01:00 +0000

Citroen have long been at the forefront of the UK LCV market in terms of their ‘green’ credentials. This has been reinforced with their current LCV line up which includes 3 vans that fall into the sub 120g/km CO2 emission LCVs -

- C2 Enterprise van (113g/km)
- Nemo 1.4HDi SensoDrive van (116g/km)
- Nemo 1.4HDi manual 5 speed van (119g/km)

Whilst the rest of the range also boasts some impressive figures, highlighted with the Citroen Relay panel van producing from just 208g/km, its the Nemo 1.4HDi that couples its low emissions with outstanding fuel economy.

In a recent independent Fuel Marathon conducted by Total Excellium, the Citroen Nemo returned a stunning figure of 84.09 mpg over a 411 mile course which covered every major British road from motorways to city driving.

These impressive figures coupled with an impressive load capacity and some very low monthly leasing prices makes for a real winner in our eyes. To see more on the Nemo and the rest of the Citroen range click here.

Summer Special on Citroen Berlingo LX Vans!

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 08:55:00 +0000

Another summer speacial from Crusader Vans. The Citroen Berlingo has been taken to the next level with the new model range. It is bigger dimensionally in every department. The all new cab boasts a host of storage areas and the standard equipment on all models includes central locking, a trip computer, electric front windows, and internally adjustable door mirrors. The Berlingo LX model also benefits from having a Modular, dual passenger, Extenso bench seat giving 3 seats up front and a Nearside sliding side loading door.

'What Van' magazine's verdict on the New Berlingo is " ...a well designed and put together van with a wide model choice" With a monthly finance payment of just £143 + VAT per month the new Citroen Berlingo 1.6 Hdi 75PS LX is a great value for money small van.

To see our fantastic offers on this model and the rest of the Citroen range please click here!

Hunt for The truth in Internet Van Sales.

noreply@blogger.com (Dave @ Crusader) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 19:28:00 +0000

Truth. It seems to be one of the hardest things to winkle out of anybody selling anything over the phone. Try asking for a definitive answer to the question “what is the actual price?” when you’re talking to someone about funding and buying a van on HP or lease.

My tip to you is always ask the price of the van. That way, you know how much you are funding. Let’s face it, why should you not know. The only reason somebody won’t tell you or will dance around the answer is because they don't want you to know. They don’t want you to know how much mark up or commission or fees or charges they are making out of you on top of the advertised headline “Internet exclusive” price.

A decent and professional company will always give it to you straight and answer any question you’ve got. Seems to me that’s the difference with Crusader Vans. We will tell you the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Now that can be a risky approach, because it can make us seem more expensive at first sight. It’s like headline cheap flights advertised in the papers. It’s only when you try to book the flight that you find out the £30 ticket is just one way and doesn’t include taxes, airport landing fees, meals, baggage allowance, the seat, the plane, a pilot and the fuel!

When it comes down to it, dig around and get answers to your questions and you may actually find that what seems like the cheapest headline deal isn’t as kosher as you thought because of hidden balloons and terminal payments. And don’t be fooled by those words Balloon and Terminal payment. They mean the same thing - you will wind up owing somebody some money no matter how you cut it. Anybody who says you don't is as informed and reliable as a cheap watch.

So hunt for the truth in Internet van sales. Get answers to all your questions before you commit yourself to a deal that seems too good to be true – because it probably isn’t.

Keith @ Crusader Vans

Van Scrappage Scheme - Is it all its cracked up to be?

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:16:00 +0000

The Government's car and van scrappage scheme " will provide motorists with a £2,000 discount on new vehicles bought when they trade in cars and vans that are 10 years old. It will be a time limited scheme until March 2010." (Alistair Darling, April 22nd Budget)

The Chancellor gave the impression that the £2,000 per new car/van scrappage plan would be paid for by the Treasury, it later emerged that the Government will only be prepared to meet a maximum 50% (£1,000), with the onus on participating dealers/manufacturers to contribute the remaining £1,000.

One of the key points about the scrappage scheme is that the £2000 allowance will only come off of the full retail price, it cannot be offered in conjunction with any other offer. The Chancellor also neglected to say that Crusader Vans already get fantastic discounts through our massive buying power along with extra support from dealers and manufacturers. We have been consistantly offering heavily discounted vans to our customers long before the scrappage scheme came along. Whats even better is that you dont have to have 10 year old van to take advantage of our discounts!

Give us a call today for some of the lowest leasing prices around on 01435 865494.

New Iveco Daily Van - Cheapest Leasing Prices!

noreply@blogger.com (Shane @ Crusader) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 10:49:00 +0000

The Iveco Daily panel van has always enjoyed a reputation as a strong, heavy-duty workhorse but lacking in finesse in terms of styling, comfort & ergonomics.

The New Iveco Daily Panel Van has been completely revised with modern styling and an entirely re-worked cab. It also boasts a range of diesel engines that any manufacturer would be proud to have in their line-up.

The verdict from ‘What Van’ magazine states ‘The Iveco Daily has come of age & will soon find many new friends. It not only picked up the large panel van award for 2007, it also was also awarded the converted Van of the Year accolade’.

With the current dip in the market and Crusader Vans huge buying power, we can safely say that we have some of the best monthly prices on the New Iveco Daily van leasing in the UK. We also have a large range of Iveco vans in stock for a quick delivery turnaround. Prices are available from as low as £235 per month or just £59 per week.

To find out more on the Iveco Daily, please give us a call in the office and ask for Shane on 01435 865494 or take a look at the following link www.crusadervans.co.uk/iveco-van-leasing.htm

Why van leasing is better than renting.

noreply@blogger.com (Claire) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 13:55:00 +0000

I am often asked why should I take a van on finance lease instead of renting one on a long term basis?
Well the answer is simple. When you lease a van you you get to choose which van you have - what colour it will be, what options you want and what size and specification you require. You are spreading your monthly payments over a set term and as a result your monthly payments will be cheaper than renting. This is because the finance comapny knows how much money they willl get from you because of the committment you make. There are lower up front costs which help improve cash flow and you have the option to own or sell the vehicle at the end of the finance lease. This allows you to keep some equity in your vehicle.

You also have the added bonus of being able to sign write your vehicle with your own company logo and add other extras such as roof racks and interior racking.

Alternatively, with rental you can pay your monthly rental charge and have nothing to show for it at the end of the term. Surely in this current economical climate this doesn't make financial sense!!

Click here to see some of our fantastic low monthly lease payments and if you need any more information please give me a call in the office. 01435 865494 - Just Ask For Claire!

Citroen Berlingo 1.6 Hdi 75PS X

noreply@blogger.com (Dave @ Crusader) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:56:00 +0000

The Citroen Berlingo has been taken to the next level with the new model range. It is bigger dimensionally in every department. The all new cab boasts a host of storage areas and the standard equipment on all models includes central locking, a trip computer, electric front windows, and internally adjustable door mirrors.

'What Van' magazine's verdict on the New Berlingo is " ...a well designed and put together van with a wide model choice" With a monthly finance payment of just £130 + VAT per month the new Citroen Berlingo 1.6 Hdi 75PS X is a great value for money small van.

Have a look at our fantastic offer by clicking here.

Reasons why now is a good time to lease a new van

noreply@blogger.com (Dave @ Crusader) — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 08:32:00 +0000

I was asked the question the other day, why should I lease a van now in these hard economical times? Well the answer to that is that it is a buyers market out there.

One of the key factors is the abundance of overage stock available within the market place. Many of the major manufacturers have over ordered on stock when times were good and now have far more vehicles than they can sell. As a consequence, rising holding costs and fewer buyers mean that deals must be done and dealers are keen to do whatever it takes to get rid of stock. We are currently seeing an average saving of £500 on vehicles this year compared to last year as new and better discounts appear in an attempt to bring back consumer confidence.

The other major factor is the seriously low finance rates currently available. With the Bank of England base rate down at 0.5%, borrowing money has never been cheaper. We are currently able to offer rates as low as 3% flat on our popular finance lease deals over 3,4 & 5 years with European finance house ING Lease. This compares well when you look at finance rates a year ago which were running closer to 6%.

It’s important to remember that whatever rate you do get on your finance package, it will be fixed for the term of the agreement. If you can get a rate of 3% today it will be the same for say 3, 4 or 5 years. This means a huge saving can be made over any increase in interest rates in the future.

So with a vast range of product and low finance rates, there couldn’t be a better time to finance your new van. Have a look at our ‘Leasing Explained’ page for a guide on what finance products we have available and if you need any more info or even some finance figures please give Shane a call in our sales team. You can reach him on 01435 865494.