FLEET managers in several Government departments are preparing to trial fuel-saving devices which could lead to orders worth more than £250,000. Three companies are in the running to take part in the year-long scheme, which is being led by HM Customs & Excise to see what effect the products might have on its fleet's fuel efficiency.

Government departments have been directed to make sure they take environmental issues into account with their fleets, making them investigate several avenues, including fuel-saving devices. Chester-based Power Makers Plus is one of those in the running for the trial after it approached the Government about taking on its fuel catalyst. It will be competing against devices from Fuel Technology International, based in Cheshire and the Broquet device, marketed by a firm in West Sussex.

The full weight of the Government's testing facilities will be behind the trials, allowing for an independent view on the effects of the devices. Discussions are taking place as to which of the firms will take part in the tests, which will be carried out on about 40 vehicles.