Five key markets where car and commercial vehicle demand is likely to stay relatively steady during the credit crunch have been named.

The markets - Motability sales, public sector fleets, blue-light fleets, driving school sales and diplomatic and tax free sales – were named by Network Automotive as offering reliable demand to lease and fleet suppliers.

Managing director Colin Bruder said: “There are sectors that offer continuing opportunities during poor economic conditions and, if success can be found there, can potentially bring ongoing sales because they are not so closely linked to the general economy.”

However, these fleets often operate very strict tendering and procurement processes.

“A degree of insight and planning” is needed to get results," said Mr Bruder.