MADISON, WI – ALD Automotive's fleet has reached the 50,000-vehicle landmark as the company celebrates its 50th anniversary.

The leasing and fleet management company reached the 50,000-mark with the delivery of a Ford Focus to 15-year customer Cummins Ltd. The company is among the world's largest independent manufacturers of diesel engines and related components and has 10 facilities in the UK.

Cummins currently operates a fleet of 509 vehicles, supplied under a solus contract hire with full maintenance deal. The company also uses ALD Automotive for the supply of short-term vehicles.

"A lot has changed in the past 50 years and the range of services and vehicles we provide has grown beyond recognition, but our absolute commitment to offering the best customer care and the highest standards of service in the industry remain the same," said Keith Allen, ALD Automotive managing director.

"[Cummins] relies on ALD Automotive for a complete 24/7 one-stop fleet solution. Over the years, the service we have received has been first class and that ensures our fleet operates at optimum efficiency," said Marie Raine, sourcing specialist - corporate indirect purchasing at Cummins.

From launch in 1958 when ALD Automotive was known as Bryan Brothers Contract Hire - the first car to be leased was a Ford Prefect De Luxe costing £456.10 - the company has expanded to become one of the world's largest car leasing companies. Now owned by Société Générale, ALD operates a global fleet of more than 765,000 vehicles.