AFS - Automotive Funding Solutions Limited

Points to consider when choosing a minibus

Before you choose your minibus, the following points should be taken into account:

Which Make and model?

Choose a well known make of minibus which is going to be reliable with a National network of approved workshops - breaking down with passengers onboard is not much fun!

Well known makes of minibuses with a strong network of approved workshops are more likely to stock the spare parts you need to get you back on the road again!

Building a maintenance package into your contract term provides peace of mind in the event of a breakdown or accident.

How many seats will you require?

If this is your first minibus, be sure to choose this carefully. If you are looking at 17 seater minibuses, be aware that most are built on long wheeled chassis and will require experienced drivers who not only hold the D1 driver’s licence entitlement but also have experience of driving.

If a 15 seat minibus is not quite big enough and you want to avoid the D1 licensing implications, you may want to consider also buying a small people carrier which will provide the extra seating you need. And will cost a lot less than an additional minibus.

Will you need access for a wheelchair and or a tail lift?

AFS can help you specify your minibus to your exact requirements. We work with approved vehicle convertors who can design your minibus from scratch.

Do your staff hold the right driving licenses?

		www.dvla.gov.uk Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency
		www.bvrla.co.uk British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association
		www.vosa.gov.ukThe Vehicle and Operator Services Agency

Carefully select extras for your vehicle:

Reversing bleepers / sensors – When considering extra safety features, reversing bleepers automatically come on when you reverse whereas reversing sensors get louder as you approach an object.  These are ideal for schools and colleges and provide the driver with extra safety reassurance.

In car entertainment – Radios and CD payers are not always fitted as standard so if you are looking for entertainment on long journeys, you will need to check if your chosen vehicle is fitted with one.

Roof Racks & Rear Ladders – These can be fitted prior to delivery and provide excellent extra luggage space.

Extra durable seat covers – Protect the seats from damage or vandalism and are particularly popular with contract hired vehicles.  Not all manufacturers supply these to fit so AFS will guide you on the most suitable makes and models.

Air conditioning – This is rarely supplied as standard and on most modern minibuses the cab is separate.  When choosing your options, careful consideration should be given to the driver and passenger and air conditioning is essential for long summer journeys.