Luke Charters, Member of Parliament for York Outer, recently visited Autohorn Fleet Services to learn more about the company’s contribution as a major national fleet rental provider. The visit coincided with the business celebrating 30 years operating at the heart of the local York economy.
Autohorn, a York-based business established in 1995 and a member of the BVRLA, provides flexible car and van rental services across the UK, supporting both domestic customers and commercial partners. With a strong base in the city, the company employs local people and plays a vital role in the regional economy while serving customers nationwide.
During the visit, Mr Charters was given a tour of the company’s premises in York and met with the leadership team to discuss Autohorn’s short- and long-term fleet rental services. Conversations focused on the importance of strong transport links, local infrastructure, and the ongoing development of York as a thriving regional hub for businesses and residents.
Luke Charters MP Bon VoyCharge Autohorn visit. Image: Autohorn Fleet Services
Discussions also turned to the issue of destination charging, a key concern for rental providers whose customers rely on this important part of the UK’s EV charging infrastructure ‘puzzle,’ according to the BVRLA’s Bon VoyCharge campaign. A lack of accessible “destination” chargepoints – those found at hotels, attractions and workplaces – is emerging as a major barrier to EV uptake. With only around 7,500 such chargers currently available across the UK, EV drivers often face range anxiety when travelling beyond urban areas. The BVRLA’s Bon VoyCharge campaign is urging government and local authorities to prioritise this often-overlooked part of the charging network to ensure the EV transition is inclusive, equitable and accessible for all.
As part of his visit, Mr Charters signed the Bon VoyCharge campaign car, which was present at Autohorn’s premises in support of the nationwide initiative. The visit took place as part of the BVRLA’s Industry Champions programme, set up to bring the sector closer to decision makers and local representatives.
Luke Charters, MP for York Outer, said: “Fleet and transport services like those provided by Autohorn are absolutely vital to York’s economy. By supporting local jobs and enabling businesses and households across the city to access reliable vehicles, Autohorn plays a major role in keeping York moving. My own work to secure upgrades to the York Outer Ring Road is very much part of this group effort to strengthen our infrastructure, boost local business, and ensure our economy continues to thrive.”
Scott Jenkins, Sales and Operations Director at Autohorn Fleet Services, said: “We were delighted to welcome Luke Charters MP to Autohorn and showcase the wide range of services we provide both locally and nationally. Having been part of the York community for nearly 30 years, we are proud of our contribution to the local economy and our role in providing flexible, reliable fleet rental solutions for individuals and businesses alike. We look forward to working with Luke to ensure the York economy can continue to thrive.”
Tom McLennan, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the BVRLA, said: “Visits like this highlight the crucial role our members play in supporting local economies while also driving the national transition to cleaner, more sustainable transport. Autohorn is a great example of a business rooted in its community but with reach across the country. For these businesses to thrive we need the right policy support for fleets to ensure a healthy and sustainable used EV market, for instance. We appreciate Luke’s time to hear these concerns and priorities.”
