Latest Cars, Vans Audition for U.K. Fleet Managers

U.K. automakers say the 25th annual fleet driving event saw an increase in the number of fleet decision-makers attending as well as a rise in test drives.

Company Car In Action, held over two days last month at Millbrook Proving Ground 50 miles (80 km) north of London, is an annual opportunity for vehicle manufacturers to showcase their cars and vans in front of a large audience of fleet managers.

The event allows fleet managers to put U.K. manufacturers’ latest models through their paces unaccompanied on four unique routes on a purpose-built test track that usually is closed to the public.

More than 5,000 test drives took place over the two days, with many manufacturers reporting increases compared with previous years.

Organizer Fleet News says the event attracted about 900 people with more end-user fleet decision makers than last year and an increase in the number of operators of fleets with more than 100 vehicles. Managers responsible for more than 1,000 vehicles increased 4%.

Mercedes-Benz head of fleet Sally Dennis says it was the third year at the event for the company and was the most successful and productive showing thus far.

Ford of Britain fleet director Nick Themistocleous says its vehicle lineup included first drives of the new Mondeo Hybrid and new Focus ST and the company saw the number of test drives increase 7% year-on-year.