The Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) is launching a new consultancy service, called AFP Fleet Intelligence, later this year.

The trade and training body says it is being introduced to meet a growing demand for fleet expertise and enable AFP members to make greater commercial use of their skills.

Paul Hollick, chair of the AFP, explained: “We’re approached regularly by various parties who are looking for expert fleet input, whether that means a small business that needs a couple of hours of advice about selling new EV solutions to corporate fleets, or a dealer group or major manufacturer who want to set up or adapt an entire corporate fleet programme.

“In the past, we’ve handled this on an informal basis, but AFP Fleet Intelligence is designed to create a more structured approach that will enable those needing fleet knowledge to find the right consultant and for AFP members to monetise their abilities and experience more easily.”

The project will take the form of a microsite linked to www.theafp.co.uk where participating fleet operator members can list their professional biographies, experience and skills.

Hollick continued: “This is a new industry service that promotes the abilities of fleet professionals while helping support everyone from start-ups to existing suppliers with their strategies and products.

“By sharing knowledge, it has the potential to fundamentally improve the landscape of the fleet industry in the short, medium and long-term.”

The AFP Fleet Intelligence microsite is under construction and should be live before the end of the year.

“Really, for the first time, this positions the AFP as a provider of fleet expertise rather than a supporting body to fleet professionals,” said Hollick.

“However, it is a natural extension of our activities, we believe, helping matchmake people who need fleet skills and members who are able to provide them.”