Options expand for automotive fleet layers

Confusion abounds when you start talking with professionals in the auto industry about fleet car sales.

The term, which is described by several industry members as a misnomer, has been misapplied and tossed around so much that most people will ask what your definition of fleet sales is before they start talking. Some dealers have departments designated for fleet sales, while others say that most companies deal directly with manufacturers.

The truth is that most manufacturers will not sell directly to companies, and fleet discounts only apply to companies that have been granted “fleet numbers,” special designations for companies that have existing…