Infiniti is planning to launch in fleet with the introduction of its first diesel-engined models later this year.
Nissan‘s prestige sister firm has signed partnership agreements with six lease firms across Europe in readiness for the diesel model introductions.
Leaseplan, Arval, ALD, ING and GE are the leasing partners operating in the UK, with Netherlands-based Athlon also selected for mainland European operations. “We’re working with them so their people know about Infiniti. In some cases it includes guaranteed buy-back agreements,” said Emmanuel Bussiere, Infiniti fleet and used car manager for Europe.
Commenting on the fleet prospects for the executive sector M model, Bussiere said: “60 to 70% will be business sales. It won’t just be small business owner operators, although 50-60% [of fleet] will be small business.
“When we talk to the lease companies they say the RVs are better than our rivals, but this is mainly due to the very small numbers and the lack of any used-car stock.
The Nissan alliance with parent company Renault is expected to help Infiniti gain a foothold in large fleets as well as small, added Bussiere.
The Infiniti M line will offer a prestige entry in the executive car segment, something not present in the Nissan or Renault ranges.
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