VEHICLE distribution and technical services company Autologic Holdings has ploughed £6.3 million into an American automotive internet business to help it prepare for a boom in web-based fleet car buying.

Announcing an 18% rise in profits before tax at £11.8 million (1998: £10.3) on a 42% improved turnover of £183.8 million (1998: £129.6 million), the company said e-commerce would have an increasingly significant influence over the way cars were ordered and delivered as consolidation in the car manufacturing industry continued. Autologic chief executive John Merry said: 'We see ourselves as the logical party to link manufacturers and importers to the placing of the order and the ultimate delivery of the vehicle to the end user.'