MALE company car drivers think they are misunderstood, and 'just want to be loved', according to a survey carried out by Peugeot.

The research, which was instigated in advance of a new advertising campaign for the 406, found that the much-maligned company car driver - of which 79 per cent are male - is perceived second only to white van man in the public eye as road nuisance par excellence. It found fleet drivers are tired of being typecast as aggressive and careless on the road. In fact, they see themselves as quite the opposite: responsible, non-stereotypical, possessing integrity and a sense of humour.

Despite findings to the contrary - 66 per cent of the three million strong UK company car fleet involved in an insurance claim every year - company car users generally believe they are both a professional driver and expert road user.

And it would seem the battle over car park caché could soon have new weapons. No longer will size and power matter in the battle of egos. Instead, according to Peugeot, being seen in the right car that emphasises 'a balance between masculinity, thoughtfulness, a caring attitude and ambition' is the new approach.