In these recessionary times when sales are down, market share becomes ever more important as the various van manufacturers battle for what business there is.

As the yearly total is running at about 40% down, Citroën has been luckier than most by raising its share to 9.74% – one of its best results ever – and in 2010 the French manufacturer is planning to pile on the pressure by launching a new range of niche vans and other fleet-friendly initiatives.

Charles Peugeot, head of LCVs and business sales, told Fleet Van: “We have taken a positive approach to the recession and have not been complacent.

“We need to attract new customers and also keep our existing ones – and our aim is to set a new benchmark for the market.”

At the heart of Citroën’s initiative is the setting up of a series of business centres which will cater for fleets.

By the end of the year some 90 dealers will have this designation, offering bespoke fleet facilities including trained staff, a range of Ready to Run special vehicles in stock, while-you-waiting servicing and courtesy vans in the event of a breakdown.

Citroën also announced it was ready to roll out its new Euro V compliant diesel engines next year, which will offer improved fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions.

There will also be a new range of vans labelled Enterprise, which will have as standard air-conditioning, Bluetooth capability, parking sensors, central locking, electric windows and mirrors and for Dispatch and Relay a full bulkhead.

Meanwhile with the Berlingo XTR+ and Dispatch XTR+ on sale, offering enhanced off-road capabilities, Citroën is axing the C-Crosser Commercial.

On the Ready to Run range Citroën will be offering four new models from 2010 – a Tawe minibus with seating for up to 14 passengers and wheelchair access, a KFS ‘Plant & Go’ low loader for transporting small plant items, a Somers fridge box van with a double-hinged side door and a Supertrucks 3.5-tonne Relay glass carrier.

Citroën also announced it was working with hybrid retrofit maker Ashwoods on versions for Berlingo, Dispatch and Relay.

While falling short of an official tie-up, commercial vehicle operations manager Robert Handyside said: “We are at present considering opportunities with Ashwoods and providing them with vehicle and technical support in developing a system.”

As yet, there is no date set for a launch of any Citroën hybrid vehicles.