Europcar, a brand of Europcar Mobility Group, is making it easier for UK motorists to get behind the wheel of a ‘69’ plate car this September without having to commit to a 3-5 year finance agreement. Europcar Long Term Flex offers a ‘no strings attached’ answer to car usership – no upfront deposit and no exit penalties1. Maintenance, servicing and roadside assistance are also included in Long Term Flex – costs which many people don’t realise are not covered by traditional finance deals.
Competitively priced – compared to the total cost of ownership or leasing a vehicle – flexibility and inclusiveness are the main benefits of Europcar Long Term Flex. Drivers simply choose from a wide range of brand new models, including a choice of hybrids, their preferred term of hire and typical mileage and they can get on the road without any big upfront or final payments.
Launched earlier this year, Europcar Long Term Flex has recently been enhanced, enabling drivers to opt out of their Long Term Flex contract after just 3 months. This makes it even more flexible for motorists. And there’s no upfront deposit required or end of contract payment – just a small administration fee of £150 – another advantage for cash-strapped motorists.
“Driving a new car has a lot of benefits – especially if you’re not the owner and you don’t have to worry about depreciation”, explained Gary Smith, Managing Director, Europcar Mobility Group UK. “New cars feature the latest motoring technology, along with delivering the best fuel efficiency and lowest emissions, making them economical to run and good for the environment.
“But with lengthy tie-in’s and often early exit costs and huge final payments, car finance plans – which for many are the only way to access a new car – can be off-putting. Indeed many drivers admit they don’t fully understand exactly what they’re signing up to anyway.”
Research commissioned by Europcar Mobility Group earlier this year2 found that only 53% of the drivers who have previously used car finance admitted to fully understanding the terms and conditions of the deal they signed.
Nearly a quarter (23%) didn’t realise breakdown cover wasn’t included in the deal, and 1 in 5 didn’t understand that servicing wasn’t included either. This means they would be hit with unexpected costs.
Recognising the challenge many drivers face balancing costs against ownership, when having access to a vehicle is essential, the simplicity and flexibility of Long Term Flex makes it attractive, particularly in the current uncertain economic times.
Long Term Flex comes with a choice of 1,000, 2,000 or 2,500 miles per calendar month, enabling drivers to opt for the most suitable solution for their needs. Europcar will also deliver the car straight to the customer’s front door at the start of the agreement.
“Europcar Long Term Flex is ideal for drivers who need a vehicle without wanting to commit to outright ownership or a lengthy lease”, concluded Gary Smith. “And once they have enjoyed driving a new car with all the financial benefits for 3 months, they have the option to change their vehicle.”