The event, held last month at the Grand Hyatt in Melbourne, saw 200 delegates across two days of keynote presentations and specialised sessions.

The Conference opened with an agenda-setting presentation by Peter Ellyard, prominent futurist, who spoke about the fleet manager’s possibilities for changing the industry: ‘The changes are not as bold or imaginative as they could be. But [fleet managers] could actually press them to be bolder and more imaginative and more creative. Create the vehicles that you would like to see on the roads of Australia in terms of their design characteristics and capabilities.’

The second day also opened with a strong keynote that featured a presentation by Melanie Gordon from BHP Billiton detailing the research and policy outcomes carried out when re-examining their light vehicle fleet. This was a favourite amongst delegates who appreciated the strong connection between policy, implementation and outcomes.

In other highlights, John Mellor, industry analyst and owner of GoAuto News, presented his view on the development of differing engine drive systems (ICE, hybrid and all electric drive trains). In his view despite the development of the new drive technologies the old internal combustion engine still had a lot of life in it and he expected it to be around for some considerable time yet.

In addition, Mark Jackman, representing Bosch, gave an overview of existing and new advanced in-vehicle passive and active safety technology and systems. He expressed the view that much of the current technology currently only available in the luxury vehicles will quickly be introduced to most vehicles in the near future.

And Lauchlan McIntosh, chairman of the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), outlined ANCAP’s vision for the future and the UN Decade of Road Safety. He explained the intended inclusion of active and passive safety systems that will be required before a vehicle can achieve the five star rating, the highest safety rating available.

Tim Roberts, Acting Executive Director, said of the event: 'I'm exceptionally pleased with the outcome, the 2013 conference delivered a balance of forward thinking perspectives and operational experience.’

Next year’s Australasian Fleet Conference will be held on 1-2 April, 2014 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and will once again feature a full and comprehensive programme across both days.