HONDA is targeting public sector fleets in a joint initiative with leasing companies to promote its new Civic five-door and double its market penetration. Appleyard Vehicle Contracts, Cowie Interleasing, Crown Vehicle Contracts and Cochranes are all working alongside Honda to develop the initiative for health authorities and local authorities.

The scheme is in response to a perceived demand for a wider choice of models from public sector fleet managers while maintaining their established relationships with supplier leasing companies. Honda national corporate sales manager Nicholas Phillips said: 'Presently Honda's stake in the public sector is around 2% - a little below our overall market penetration. This has been achieved without any specific marketing effort.'

He said the high specification of vehicles allied to their competitive running costs and leasing rates meant there was plenty of scope to win extra business. Phillips added: 'By mounting a more focused initiative with the leasing companies, we believe we can double our stake in this sector over the next 12 months.'