FIAT launched its new Ducato Maxi van at the Fleet Motor Show - and predicted the range would be an immediate hit. 'We feel the time has arrived for this vehicle. We achieved a fair degree of success last year but have high hopes for a considerable improvement this year as more operators recognise its benefits,' said Fiat UK public sector account manager Jim Jary.

Health authorities are seen as a potential key market for the £11,000-£19,500 Sofim 2.8-litre intercooled turbodiesel range. Compared with the former 2.5-litre turbodiesel, it is more powerful, has higher torque and also offers better economy for a premium of £145. Featuring a redesigned combustion chamber, a new injector pump and a revised turbocharger, it produces 122bhp at 3600rpm.

Fiat's other three light commercials have been improved. Payload of the middle-weight Scudo is up from 815kg to 900kg and has optional power windows and heated door mirrors. The Punto gets a 1698cc turbodiesel option and the Fiorino, which stet a trend as the first high-cube van, now has side impact bars built into its doors and interior-adjust wing mirrors.