This page shows how our subscription model compares to traditional leases - and helps you make an accurate price comparison between DriveSimple and other van providers.
Background: illustrative render, not a real site or product.
This page shows how our subscription model compares to traditional leases - and helps you make an accurate price comparison between DriveSimple and other van providers.
The initial term is 12 months but we have a 3-month get-out fee so your maximum commitment on a brand new vehicle is just 3 months. No more 48 month lock-ins here. We never take any payment until you are fully approved, so book a vehicle risk-free today.
You are committed to the initial hire term, which is usually 12 months. During this initial term, you have the flexibility to return your van at any time and pay a 3-month fee, instead of being locked into the remaining months of your contract. This ensures you're not locked into the full term if your circumstances change.
Make sure you are comparing like for like. Typical ‘Great deals’ often obscure real costs by excluding key items and locking you in for 4 years. If you are a van expert who buys brilliantly and operates perfectly for 3.5 years you might beat our costs. For everyone else we are cheaper.
Let’s start with a side-by-side comparison of our subscriptions vs typical van leases:
Most big van leasing companies try to win customers with a low sticker price. At a glance, that might make it look like it’s cheaper to take a van with them. But consider all the things that aren’t included in that price. Things you’ll really need. Adjust the lock-in period and upfront payments. And, suddenly, the picture changes. Think of it like low cost airlines. The headline might say ‘ Flights For £1! ’. But, after all the add-ons and adjustments, the ticket is more expensive than carriers with superior service. At DriveSimple, we’re all about transparency. We don’t lure customers in with a low sticker price plastered in small print, and land them with a long contract with a big bank. That’s not why we’re here . It’s not our style. We’re committed to true pricing . Because we offer shorter contracts and more flexible terms - plus all necessities included as standard - we might sometimes look a little more costly. But, in reality, that’s usually not the case - especially once you factor in the additional flexibility and benefits our subscriptions provide.
If you want a 60-month contract with a big bank, to drive 10 miles a day, and wait 5 months for a van - we’ll be honest. There are less expensive options out there. But if you’re looking for real world mileage, lower deposits, more flexibility, higher approvals and faster delivery, then DriveSimple is perfect for you. Let’s use a real life example. Here’s a comparison we found between DriveSimple and a big van leasing firm for a Citroen Relay L3H2 - one of our most popular vans - in October 2025. As you can see, not only does DriveSimple offer a better business proposition, with all the flexibility you need - the prices make sense as well.
In summary, this is why we think van subscriptions beat van leases:
Competitive prices - get value for money for your business
More flexible terms - so you can adapt to changing times
Lower upfront cost - you don’t have to overcommit on day one
Smaller deposits - avoid locking up your crucial capital
Faster delivery - days, not weeks, because time is money
Higher approvals - 99% approved contracts, with us, not banks
Create your personalised plan and get on the road in just 5 days.