Well-meaning moves to tackle the twin problems of traffic and pollution through law and taxation must be 'very carefully managed', David Knight, managing director of PHH Vehicle Management Services, told the 150 guests at the annual PHH Motor Manufacturers Awards in London.

In saying that all the political parties were committed to the introduction of measures which, in the short term at least, would increase business vehicle costs Knight added: 'That doesn't mean we can't be proactive in creating positive change. We find ourselves in a situation where the engines of fleet cars are getting bigger just as the tide of opinion and policy is turning the other way. We are on the brink of changes which could radically affect the new vehicle market.'

Consequently he called for fleet operators and fleet suppliers to work together to educate and inform people to create the company car drivers of the future.