A recent study found that the automotive sector is the best-rated industry for employee benefits. Sharetech platform Vestd analysed more than 130,000 job listings across 30 industries, and assessed the availability of different employee benefits. 

They crunched the numbers to give each industry a weighted score. The motoring and automotive sector came out comfortably on top with 704 points, pipping the customer service sector, which came in second with 671.

Why is the automotive sector so good for employee benefits?

It’s simple, really. Mobility is quite literally in the DNA of the automotive sector. So it’s no surprise that flexibility is baked into the benefit schemes we provide, too. Whether it’s hybrid working policies, tailored company car programmes, or schemes that reflect changing lifestyles, the motor industry tends to lead with a real-world, use-it-now mentality.

A mobility-focused approach is a core strength.

The automotive sector is an industry where car travel is often essential, so access to new, safe, and fuel-efficient vehicles has a massive impact on day-to-day life. And for those not eligible for a traditional company car, many businesses in the sector offer salary sacrifice schemes to make newer vehicles more accessible.

Salary sacrifice and smarter car access

Salary sacrifice is one of the automotive industry’s strongest cards, and it’s a key reason it outperforms others on employee benefits. According to Vestd’s data, 23% of motoring and automotive businesses offer some kind of company vehicle access scheme. Along with estate agents and sales roles, this is among the highest instances of car salary sacrifice schemes found in the research. 

Through these schemes, employees can give up part of their gross salary in exchange for a brand-new vehicle. And because it’s deducted before tax and National Insurance, it often works out cheaper than leasing privately.

There’s more to it than a saving.

When you partner with a provider like SG Fleet, you get the flexibility to choose the right option for your needs. For example, our Salarylease scheme includes servicing, maintenance, and insurance as standard. That means no haggling or hefty upfront costs, just a simple, all-in-one benefit that helps staff stay mobile and protected, without the usual admin headaches. On the other hand, our unique Novalease product covers insurance as an optional extra, giving you total freedom of choice.

Environmentally smart and cost-effective

Another reason the automotive world ranks so highly is that, in recent years, it’s been very forward-thinking. Lots of salary sacrifice schemes now centre on electric vehicles (EVs), helping to reduce the carbon footprint of both the business and the employee.

With Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rates generally still favouring electric cars, this kind of benefit can lead to tax savings. It also means employees can get behind the wheel of premium EVs that might otherwise be out of reach.

Benefits that match real-world needs

It’s easy to throw in perks that look good in a brochure. What’s harder is to build a benefits package that actually supports people’s day-to-day lives. The automotive sector has mastered this balance. Yes, there are headline benefits like company car access and EV salary sacrifice, but many businesses also offer breakdown cover, insurance contributions, tyre replacement, and roadside support as part of their schemes.

These might not be flashy, but they matter. Add to that charge point support or smart mileage tracking apps, and it’s clear that the automotive industry’s benefits are designed around the realities of working life.

Giving employees greater financial security

The cost-of-living crisis has been squeezing households, and financial predictability is an increasingly important factor when prospective staff are assessing different employee benefits.

A salary sacrifice scheme provides exactly that predictability. Fixed monthly payments that bundle in all the major running costs mean no big repair bills and no end-of-life vehicle stress. Just a manageable monthly deduction from gross pay, without unexpected surprises.

With inflation and interest rates still a concern, that level of cost control is a huge plus, and it’s another area where the automotive sector quietly outperforms.

A competitive edge in talent attraction

Employers in the automotive sector know they’re in a skills race, and they’ve responded with compelling packages to attract and retain talent. By investing in smarter, more flexible employee benefits, automotive employers are sending a message: we value your time and we care about your wellbeing.

It’s why the sector consistently ranks high on job satisfaction surveys, and why its employee benefits packages stand out for all the right reasons.

Looking for flexible salary sacrifice schemes?

Over the years, we’ve built a reputation as a trusted provider of flexible vehicle solutions and benefits for businesses across the UK. Our industry-leading salary sacrifice schemes make it easier for you to offer cost-effective, low-emission vehicles to your team without any stress and with full support. 

We handle everything from scheme setup to ongoing management, so you can deliver perks to your team that they’ll actually use and appreciate. So, if you’re looking to improve your company's benefits package or add EVs to your benefits offerings, we’re here to help. Get in touch with us today with any questions.

FAQs

What are the employer costs for setting up a salary sacrifice car scheme?

With SG Fleet, there are no setup or ongoing fees for employers. Schemes are funded through employees’ gross salary deductions, so you can offer this benefit at zero direct cost.

How long does it take to launch an employee car benefit scheme?

Most salary sacrifice schemes are up and running in about four weeks. Timelines vary based on vehicle selection, payroll integration and any bespoke requirements.

What should I consider when choosing a scheme provider?

Look for a partner with HMRC‑compliant solutions, flexible plan options (electric, hybrid or ICE vehicles), off‑balance‑sheet arrangements and a reporting suite covering payroll, tax and ESG metrics.

How straightforward is ongoing scheme management?

With SG Fleet, admin is minimal. We provide an intuitive online portal, real‑time reporting and dedicated support. Key tasks are all handled through a central dashboard.

Can a salary sacrifice car benefit scheme support sustainability goals?

Yes. We provide access to any vehicle on the UK market, including zero‑ or low‑emission vehicles, so you can reduce your carbon footprint while offering valuable perks.