The deal, which will establish what is believed to be the first all-hybrid fleet of its kind and size in the UK, comes as the firm looks to reduce its emissions by 50% over the next five years as well as reducing BiK bills for staff.

Agility Fleet responded to its brief by recommending the hybrid powered Auris hatchback and Auris Touring Sports compact wagon for the company's field engineers and the Lexus CT 200h luxury hatchback and new IS 300h premium saloon for its senior managers and directors.

Nick Orme, Itec managing director, said: ‘We have taken delivery of our first half-dozen vehicles and have been delighted. All the cars are feature-rich and a joy to drive.

‘We have saved more than £70,000 on contract hire costs and expect to make a similar saving in fuel. Staff have seen their Benefit-in-Kind tax reduced considerably and are enjoying the extra boost to their pay packet at the end of the month.

‘Most importantly we have made a sizeable step towards our emission reduction targets.’

Keith Townsend, Agility Fleet managing director, added: ‘The corporate fleet market has never been so complex. Directors have to balance the demands of their environmental policies and cost base with the need for flexibility and a service which is “admin-light”. They then need to weigh up staff wishes for low BIK with the fact that for many, a high quality company car is still seen as an important perk for recruitment and staff retention purposes. We are delighted we were able to achieve that perfect blend for Itec.’

Stuart Ferma, Toyota and Lexus Fleet Services Sales Manager, said: ‘To see a company of Itec's size and reputation transforming such a large fleet to an all-hybrid solution is very exciting for us.

‘Toyota has led the way in hybrid technology for more than a decade and the corporate fleet market is a key sector for us in the years ahead. Agility's vision and expertise in this arena were key to securing this order and are delighted to be partner with them.’