Europcar, the biggest car hire company in the U.K, has launched its ‘first pay-as-you-go’ rental system for both van and car hire in a move aimed at enticing more customers.

In times of uncertainty regarding finances, particularly among small business operators, there is reluctance in committing to longer term contracts. Europcar hopes its new scheme will resolve any questions over making such a commitment.

Catriona Lougher, Managing Director of Europcar, outlined the company’s new program: “With the future looking so uncertain, pay as you go car and van hire makes a lot of sense enabling businesses to respond quickly to opportunities without being tied into longer term contracts. Crucially we have removed potential barriers such as credit checks and improved access to vehicles with free delivery and collection for less frequent customers to make car and van hire much more convenient.”

The company is certainly making every effort to entice new business customers, including free delivery from the depot to any location within 10 miles and also offering discount to those who pre-pay for their car or van hire. Small businesses will also be afforded reduced rates and business accounts to guarantee fixed rates

The changes are part of Europcar’s ambition to create tailor made packages which cater to the needs of the client. Flexibility is seen as one of the keys to meeting business needs and the move may well see other car hire companies re-think their approach.