Volvo Car UK is running a pilot car rental scheme with Motorworld Volvo, in Oxford, and six other dealers across the country to offer a professional, quality service to the local community. If successful, it is hoped that the scheme will develop throughout the UK dealer network during 2003.

The scheme, Volvo Rental, enables customers to hire a specific Volvo model suitable for any occasion. Whether it's performance, style, safety, comfort or space needed to cater for a leisure activity, a special weekend or just a temporary car, there's a Volvo model available.

John Wallace, leasing and rental manager at Volvo, said: "Volvo Rental provides dealers with an opportunity to strengthen relationships with people living and working in the local area. Customers will now be able to contact their local Volvo dealer and arrange short-term car hire depending on their personal requirements."

Dealers are able to offer a wide selection of Volvo models for hire through the Volvo Rental scheme; from the Volvo S40 saloon and C70 convertible to the V70 estate and the new sports utility vehicle, the Volvo XC90.