The National Association of Police Fleet Managers’ (NAPFM) Conference and Blue Light Fleet Exhibition, taking place in Peterborough from September 25 to 26, is to invite fleets operated by central government and local authorities to attend for the first time.

The move comes not only at a time of increased focus on costs within the public sector, but also at a time when fewer fleet managers and visitors are attending bespoke fleet events.

A NAPFM spokesman said: ‘There is so much synergy within the public sector fleet groups that spreads beyond the emergency services.

‘Many of our exhibitors are also suppliers to central government and local authorities. At this time of public sector austerity this is an opportunity to collaborate, share ideas and save money.’

As well as exhibitions from vehicle manufacturers, convertors and equipment suppliers, the event will also feature a series of presentations including outsourcing versus public sector collaboration, new rules on Type Approval, low emission vehicles and trails involving intelligent black boxes in vehicles.

The event will also feature emergency service vehicles of the future with police cars meeting the forthcoming specifications from ACPO (the Association of Chief Police Officers) on display.