A new online software platform aimed at short-term hire has been launched by Essential Fleet Services.

The Essential Rental platform not only allows users to book and manage short-term hires but also provides access to more than 200 specialist vehicle types.

It uses award-winning fleet software supplied by Fleet on Demand and fully integrates with back office systems to provide a standardised pricing structure and margins.

Ed Hummel, commercial director of Essential Fleet Services, said: 'The introduction of the Essential Rental platform opens up a number of new markets and opportunities to us, allowing us to be pro-active in the short-term hire market.

'Access to real-time information and an extensive range of specialist vehicles will benefit our customers. Through this platform, we're providing a diverse range of vehicles, from road sweepers and gritters to LCVs and refuse collection vehicles.'

Essential Fleet Services is a Lincoln-based contract hire and leasing company backed by private equity investors, Endless LLP. Essential has operations spanning the North-West England, Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and South-East England and has a turnover of over £40 million.