Specialist fleets running 4x4s have been told to prepare for a tough re-sale market.

“The current tough used market for 4x4s could get worse, or it may be a blip while confidence and expectations wobble in the face of the economic slowdown.

"But with a clear strategy on running 4x4s, both private and corporate users can run them efficiently,” said SHB 4x4 director Paul Street.

He said fleets should consider rental rather than purchase.