18.11.2002
Vauxhall Combo wins bid to deliver the Royal Mail

Postal deliveries around the UK will soon be delivered courtesy of Vauxhall vans, following a sale between Royal Mail and Vauxhall Motors for the supply of up to 20,000 Combo vans over the next five years.

The massive deal, one of the largest orders for light commercial vehicles ever placed with one vehicle manufacturer in the UK and worth around £190 million at showroom prices, was officially signed at the British International Motor Show in Birmingham last month.

Royal Mail opted for Vauxhall after a tender process with five vehicle manufacturers and a number of contract hire companies bidding for the supply of postal delivery vans for the next five years in an online e-auction.
The Combo vans, all diesels and powered by Vauxhall's 1.7 liter 16v diesel engine, will replace the existing Ford Escort vans and Peugeot Partners which currently deliver the nation's post. The Vauxhall Combo was voted Best Small Van at the 2002 Commercial Fleet World Honors this year.

The decision to choose Vauxhall came after an exhaustive evaluation process that considered whole life costs, dealer support, maintenance issues, and environmental considerations.

"Vauxhall offered the best value for money," explained Tony Shaw, Purchasing Manager at Royal Mail's vehicle services unit. "We looked at a number of vehicle manufacturers and while whole life costs were an important consideration, we were also impressed by Vauxhall's commitment to the environment. We will be evaluating alternative fuels, including liquid petroleum gas, for the future."

Vauxhall Fleet Sales Director Maurice Howkins said the new order from Royal Mail renewed a business relationship that had existed a number of years ago. "We used to supply Royal Mail with their postal delivery vehicles, and so are delighted to be renewing our business relationship with them."