Car leasing (also called contract hire) lets you drive a brand-new vehicle for an agreed period, typically 24, 36, or 48 months, in exchange for fixed monthly payments. You pay an initial rental upfront (usually calculated as a multiple of your monthly payment), followed by the same amount each month for the remainder of the term.

At the end of the contract you simply return the vehicle. You never own the car, which means you avoid depreciation risk and the hassle of selling. Most leases include road tax for the full term, and maintenance packages can be added for complete peace of mind.

Personal Contract Hire (PCH) is for private individuals. Prices are quoted inclusive of VAT, and the vehicle is registered in your name. It is a straightforward way to drive a new car with fixed monthly costs.

Business Contract Hire (BCH) is for limited companies, partnerships, sole traders, and other business entities. Prices are typically quoted excluding VAT, and VAT-registered businesses can usually reclaim a proportion of the VAT on rentals. The vehicle is registered to the business. BCH can also offer corporation tax and capital allowance benefits depending on the vehicle type.

The initial rental is an upfront payment made at the start of your lease. It is not a deposit (you do not get it back), but it reduces your monthly payments for the rest of the agreement. It is typically expressed as a multiple of the monthly rental: for example, “3+23” means three months’ rental upfront followed by 23 monthly payments.

A higher initial rental reduces each monthly payment, while a lower one (such as one month upfront) keeps more cash in your pocket. We can structure either to suit your budget.

A standard car lease includes the vehicle itself, road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) for the duration of the contract, full manufacturer’s warranty, and free UK-wide delivery to your door. Breakdown cover is typically included for the first year (and often longer, depending on the manufacturer).

Insurance, fuel, and servicing are your responsibility unless you add an optional maintenance package, which covers routine servicing, tyres, and wear-and-tear repairs for a fixed monthly supplement.

Most leases offer annual mileage allowances of 5,000, 8,000, 10,000, 15,000, or 20,000 miles. We recommend estimating your typical annual mileage as accurately as possible, because exceeding the allowance incurs an excess mileage charge (set per mile at the start of the contract).

If you are unsure, we would rather you slightly overestimate than underestimate. It is generally more cost-effective to pay for a higher mileage allowance upfront than to pay excess charges at the end. Your dedicated specialist can help you work out the right figure.

It depends on your circumstances. Leasing suits people who prefer to drive a new car every few years, want predictable fixed monthly costs, and do not want the risk of depreciation. You are never left trying to sell a used car, and you always have access to the latest technology, safety features, and efficiency improvements.

If you value long-term ownership, want to modify the vehicle extensively, or drive very high mileage, buying outright or via a finance agreement may suit you better. Our specialists can talk through both routes to help you decide.

There is no single credit score required. Every application is assessed individually based on your full financial circumstances, not just a number. As an independent broker, we work with a panel of 20+ funders, each with different lending criteria. This means we can match your profile to the most suitable funder for your situation.

All leases are subject to status and affordability. If you have concerns about your credit history, speak to us before applying. We will give you an honest assessment of your options.

You must be aged 18 or over, hold a valid full UK driving licence, and be a UK resident (typically for at least three years). For personal leases, you will need to provide details of your income, employment, and residential history. For business leases, the company must have at least one UK-based director or proprietor.

We lease to individuals, sole traders, partnerships, limited companies (including newly formed ones, subject to status), and PLCs. If you have a less common set-up, get in touch and we will advise.

When we carry out an initial assessment with a funder, some may perform a soft credit check, which does not appear on your credit file and does not affect your score. A full credit search (hard check) is only carried out once you have chosen to proceed with a specific funder and vehicle, and you will be made aware before this happens.

We never run a credit check without your knowledge or consent.

Most credit decisions come back within a few hours, sometimes the same day. Once approved, the timeline depends on the vehicle: in-stock vehicles can often be delivered within days, while factory orders vary by manufacturer and specification (typically 6–16 weeks, though some models take longer).

We will give you a realistic delivery timescale before you commit. If speed is a priority, browse our in-stock range for vehicles ready for rapid delivery.

Yes. Sole traders, freelancers, contractors, and self-employed individuals are all welcome to apply. The funder will typically want to see evidence of income, such as recent tax returns or bank statements, and may consider the length of time you have been trading.

Whether you lease personally or through your business is a decision we can help you with based on your tax position and circumstances. Subject to status and affordability.

Yes. Limited companies, limited liability partnerships, sole traders, and PLCs can all lease through the business. Business Contract Hire (BCH) is the most common arrangement, offering potential VAT and corporation tax advantages depending on your circumstances.

We work with businesses of all sizes, from single-vehicle owner-directors through to SME fleets. All business leases are subject to status and the trading history of the company.

Business Contract Hire can offer several potential tax advantages. If your company is VAT-registered, you can typically reclaim 50% of the VAT on the vehicle rental (or 100% if the vehicle is used exclusively for business purposes). If a maintenance package is included, 100% of the VAT on that element is usually reclaimable.

Lease rentals may also be offset against taxable profits as a business expense, subject to HMRC rules on CO₂ emissions and private-use proportions. We always recommend consulting your accountant for advice tailored to your specific situation.

If your employer provides you with a company car that you also use for personal journeys, you will pay tax on the benefit. This is known as Benefit-in-Kind (BIK). The amount is calculated by multiplying the car’s P11D value (list price including delivery and VAT) by the BIK percentage rate for that vehicle, then by your income tax rate.

BIK rates are set by the government and primarily determined by the vehicle’s CO₂ emissions. Fully electric vehicles attract significantly lower BIK rates than petrol or diesel equivalents, making them highly tax-efficient as company cars. The rates are confirmed several years in advance, so your specialist can help you plan ahead.

Absolutely. We work with businesses running anything from a single company car to multi-vehicle fleets. For larger requirements, we offer dedicated account management, staggered delivery schedules, and consolidated reporting.

As part of the Global Vehicle Group (the UK’s largest B2B-focused leasing broker, managing over 70,000 vehicles), we have the infrastructure and funder relationships to support fleet requirements of any scale. Subject to status.

Yes, in many cases. Some funders on our panel are comfortable working with newly incorporated companies, though a personal guarantee from a director may be required. The funder may also consider the director’s personal credit profile alongside the company’s status.

Every application is assessed on its own merits. Get in touch and we will let you know where you stand before you commit to anything. Subject to status and affordability.

Leasing is particularly well suited to electric vehicles because EV technology evolves quickly, and leasing lets you upgrade to the latest models regularly without being exposed to the uncertainty of long-term battery depreciation. You drive the newest range, charging capability, and efficiency improvements every few years.

For company car drivers, the tax incentives are significant. BIK rates on fully electric vehicles remain substantially lower than on petrol or diesel equivalents, and the government has confirmed a gradual, predictable schedule of increases through to the end of the decade, giving businesses clear planning certainty.

BIK rates for fully electric (zero-emission) company cars are set by the government and confirmed well in advance. The rates rise gradually each tax year but remain dramatically lower than those for petrol and diesel vehicles, which can attract rates of up to 37% (rising in subsequent years). Even at the higher end of the confirmed schedule, EVs remain one of the most tax-efficient company car options available.

We can model the precise BIK cost for any vehicle based on your tax bracket and the P11D value. Speak to one of our EV specialists for a personalised breakdown. Rates are reviewed by the government and may change, so always check the latest position.

A home charger is not essential, but it is the most convenient and cost-effective way to charge. Most EV drivers charge overnight using a dedicated home wallbox, which typically provides a full charge in 6–10 hours depending on the vehicle and charger speed. Installation grants may be available depending on your property and tenure.

Workplace charging provided by your employer is currently exempt from Benefit-in-Kind tax, making it a genuinely free perk. The UK public charging network has also expanded considerably, with rapid chargers at motorway services, supermarkets, and car parks. We can talk through charging options as part of your consultation.

Zero-emission vehicles are no longer fully exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty (VED). New EVs now pay a nominal first-year rate, followed by the standard flat rate from year two onwards. EVs with a list price exceeding the government’s threshold may also attract the “expensive car supplement” for five years (the threshold has been raised, so many mid-range EVs are not affected).

With a lease, road tax is included in your monthly rental for the full term, so this is handled for you. We factor it into the quote so there are no hidden costs.

Manufacturer-quoted ranges are based on the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure) test cycle. In real-world driving, you should expect around 10–25% less than the headline figure, depending on factors such as speed, temperature, terrain, use of heating or air conditioning, and driving style.

Our EV specialists can advise on realistic, real-world range for any model based on how and where you typically drive. We would rather give you an honest assessment than an optimistic one.

You are responsible for arranging your own fully comprehensive motor insurance. The policy must cover the vehicle from the date of delivery and remain in force for the duration of the lease. The funder (the legal owner of the vehicle) must be noted on the policy as the registered keeper or interested party, depending on the insurer’s requirements.

If you need guidance, our team can point you in the right direction, though we do not provide insurance broking services ourselves.

A maintenance package is an optional add-on that covers routine servicing, replacement tyres, brakes, exhausts, batteries, and associated labour for a fixed monthly cost. It protects you from unexpected repair bills and ensures the vehicle is maintained to the manufacturer’s schedule throughout the lease.

It is particularly popular with business users because 100% of the VAT on the maintenance element is usually reclaimable. For personal users, it offers budgeting certainty. The coverage can vary between funders, so we will explain exactly what is included before you commit.

Yes, certain accessories can be factory-fitted at the point of order and included in the monthly rental. If you wish to fit accessories yourself after delivery, you may do so, but they may need to be removed before the vehicle is returned, and any damage caused by fitting or removal may result in charges.

We recommend discussing any planned modifications with your specialist at the quoting stage so we can advise on the best approach.

A lease is a fixed-term agreement, and early termination is not a standard feature. However, if your circumstances change, we will help you explore your options with the funder. An early termination charge will typically apply, calculated based on the remaining rentals and the vehicle’s current market value.

If you think your needs may change during the lease, speak to us at the outset. We may be able to structure a shorter-term deal or advise on flexible arrangements where available.

Yes, as long as the other driver is covered by your insurance policy. The leaseholder remains responsible for the condition, mileage, and return of the vehicle regardless of who is driving it. On a business lease, you may nominate specific drivers as required by the funder.

In most cases, yes. You will need to inform the funder and your insurance company before travelling. The funder may issue a VE103 form (Vehicle on Hire certificate), which confirms you have permission to take the vehicle out of the UK. Your insurer will need to extend your cover to the relevant countries.

Some funders have restrictions on the duration or destination of overseas travel, so it is best to check in advance.

As your contract approaches its end date, we will be in touch to discuss your options. In most cases you can return the vehicle and start a new lease on an updated model, extend the current agreement (subject to the funder’s terms), or simply hand the vehicle back.

The vehicle will be collected from an agreed location and inspected by an independent assessor. As long as it has been maintained to the manufacturer’s schedule and meets the agreed return standard, there should be nothing further to pay.

Fair wear and tear is the normal deterioration that occurs when a vehicle is used carefully and responsibly over time. Minor stone chips, light surface scratches, and small scuffs from everyday use are generally acceptable. The BVRLA (British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association) publishes industry-standard guidelines that define what is considered acceptable.

Damage caused by a specific event (such as an impact, a kerbed alloy, a burn, or a tear in the upholstery) is not classified as fair wear and tear and may result in an end-of-lease charge. We recommend inspecting your vehicle 10–12 weeks before the return date so there is time to arrange any repairs if needed.

If you exceed the agreed mileage at the end of the contract, you will be charged a per-mile excess fee. This rate is set at the start of the lease and disclosed in your agreement, so there are no surprises.

If you realise mid-contract that your mileage is tracking higher than expected, let us know. We may be able to adjust the allowance with the funder before the end of the term, which is usually more cost-effective than paying excess charges at return.

On a standard Contract Hire agreement (personal or business), there is no automatic right to purchase the vehicle at the end of the term. The funder retains ownership, and the vehicle is returned.

If ownership at the end of the agreement is important to you, alternative finance products such as Hire Purchase or Lease Purchase may be more suitable. We can talk you through the differences and help you decide which structure best fits your goals.

Intelligent Vehicle Finance is a specialist car leasing broker for UK businesses and private clients. We are a trading style of XLCR Vehicle Management Ltd, established in 2015 and now part of the Global Vehicle Group (GVG), the UK’s largest B2B-focused leasing broker, managing over 70,000 vehicles with a total funded value exceeding £2.5 billion.

We do not operate from a showroom. Instead, we invest in what matters: experienced specialists, strong funder relationships, and a process that is fast, transparent, and personal.

Yes. We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) as a credit intermediary and for insurance mediation. We are also proud members of the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) and adhere to their code of conduct.

This means you are protected by industry-standard complaints procedures and that every recommendation we make is in your interest, not ours.

“Subject to status” means that all lease agreements are conditional on a satisfactory credit assessment and affordability check carried out by the funder. It is a regulatory requirement and ensures that any finance arrangement is suitable for your circumstances.

It does not mean you need a perfect credit history. Our panel of 20+ funders covers a broad range of lending criteria, and we will work to match your application to the most appropriate provider. We will always be upfront about your likely options.

We are not tied to any single manufacturer or dealer group. As an independent broker, we source vehicles from franchised UK dealers and directly from manufacturers, giving us access to virtually every make and model available in the UK market: from mainstream hatchbacks and SUVs through to prestige marques such as Range Rover, Porsche, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi.

Because we work with 20+ funders, we can often secure terms that are more competitive than going directly to a single dealer or finance house.

Yes. All vehicles are delivered free of charge to your home or workplace address anywhere in mainland UK. We will confirm a delivery date and keep you updated throughout the process. There are no hidden collection or transport fees.

We take complaints seriously. If you are unhappy with any aspect of our service, please contact us in the first instance and we will do our best to resolve the matter quickly. If you remain dissatisfied, you can escalate your complaint through our formal complaints procedure, details of which are available on our website.

As an FCA-authorised firm and BVRLA member, you also have the right to refer eligible complaints to the Financial Ombudsman Service or the BVRLA’s conciliation service, depending on the nature of the issue.