FORD and Jaguar are forging closer links in the fleet sector in a bid to win new business. Ford is taking advantage of its widespread contacts with fleet managers to introduce them to the Jaguar brand, often for the first time.

As a result, Ford Motor Company as a group can offer a 'seamless' arrangement for cars and vans. Mike Wear, Ford's director of fleet operations, says the Ford range, including the Lincoln, is complementary with Jaguar models from the S-type upwards. He said: 'All Jaguar business is done on Jaguar terms. Ford in many cases acts as an introductory face and facilitates the possibility of a fleet doing business with Jaguar. Jaguar then goes in and carries out the negotiations.

'We have spoken to major fleets who want volume cars, light commercials and boardroom cars and by the two brands working together we can meet their requirements. But Jaguar is a standalone prestige brand.' Christine Downton, Jaguar's corporate operations manager, has welcomed the advantages of working with Ford, and says she regularly meets with the manufacturer to look at opportunities in the fleet market.