VOLVO is expecting to build on its record fleet sales during 2003 with the introduction of the new XC90 sport utility vehicle and high performance R models.

Fleet sales accounted for more than half its 40,679 units sold during 2002, giving Volvo a 2% share of the UK fleet market – up from 1.6% in 2001. With its first full year of availability of the D5 engine in S60, V70 and S80 models, Volvo diesel sales grew by 281.1% to 14,469 units.

Ian Rendle, Volvo corporate sales manager, said: 'We have had another good year in Volvo fleet sales. D5 in particular has been a major contributor to our success. With a full year of diesel production, the launch of the XC90 and new R-line,we anticipate 2003 being another good year for corporate sales.'