A new 'large fleet' contact hire division has been formed by Pendragon, the UK's largest dealer group. Developed from the existing Pendragon Contracts operation with a fleet of around 9,000 vehicles, the new Derby-based company is the result of a £1.5m investment.

The new division, called Pendragon-i, is aimed at supporting 200 vehicle-plus fleets alongside c2K onLine, aimed at smaller fleets and tins.co.uk, the online leasing operation for retail motorists.

Fleet managers will be able to set up an online profile for their company including banding, maintenance options and an online vehicle and driver reporting system. Drivers are able to get online quotes at their banding level and forward their choice to the fleet manager.

Ken Trinder, Pendragon-i director, said: “This is currently a tough market but we are looking for substantial growth this year. We believe that we have a product that will suit many large fleets.

“Our understanding of the motor industry is a major asset. We are not owned by a bank that possesses little in-depth knowledge of the market. Within our organisation is expertise on buying, selling and maintaining of cars that we believe provides a tangible competitive advantage.”