The timing is extremely relevant this year as new tax rules governing ULEVS take effect from April in the UK. For example, the threshold governing 100% capital allowances on ULEVs is set to fall to 75g/km from April 2015 and remain in place for the next three years.

At the same time, new rules affecting benefit-in-kind taxation of low emission vehicles come into force, with two new tax bands for the first time, at 0-50g/km and 51-75g/km of CO2.

The legislative changes make the correct vehicle choice of paramount importance, and the Fleet Show, on Tuesday, 12th May, provides fleet decision-makers with the ideal opportunity to test the very latest models.

These are likely to include the Nissan LEAF, the world’s biggest selling electric vehicle. Offering rapid charging to 80% capacity in just 30 minutes, this C-segment hatchback has a range of up to 124 miles from a single charge of its pure electric powerplant.

Also on Show will be the Renault ZOE, currently the most affordable EV on the market. Now available with the option to purchase the battery instead of leasing it, the ZOE has a range of 130 miles and, like the LEAF, offers 30-minute rapid charging.

BMW’s highly acclaimed i range, comprising the i3 electric and range-extended electric vehicle and i8 plug-in hybrid supercar, will also be at Silverstone with a comprehensive line-up of support packages, including access to charging networks, home charging solutions and the use of conventionally-powered cars for long trips.

And with CO2 emissions of just 48g/km, the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid combines a diesel engine and an electric motor to mix strong performance with very low CO2 emissions. It’s possible to drive short distances at up to high speeds on electric power alone, while its four-wheel drive system also helps in slippery conditions.

Meanwhile at the luxury end of the market, Californian all-electric luxury car manufacturer, Tesla, will have its Model S, which offers a range of up to 310 miles on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), available for test driving.

“ULEVs are of increasing importance in today’s extremely emissions-conscious fleet market as part of the mix to help fleets reduce their corporate carbon footprint and meet their social responsibility policies.

“Some of the very latest models will be available at Silverstone this year so that fleet decision-makers will have the perfect opportunity to assess them for themselves,” said Jerry Ramsdale, show director and publisher of Fleet World.

This year’s Show has already attracted a record number of vehicle manufacturers, including several who have never participated in the event before, such as Ford Motor Company and the Fiat Group.

They will be displaying the very latest in powertrain developments, including the most recent low-emission, tax-busting conventional ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) advances as well as the newest hybrid and electric technology.

Show visitors will again be able to experience test driving on three circuits of the world-famous Silverstone Grand Prix venue, plus off-road driving on the 4×4 course.

However, the Fleet Show isn’t simply about test driving, and a visit to Silverstone provides an appealing mix of education, networking and static displays that guarantee a day out of the office will not be wasted.

Back again by popular demand are the highly successful fleet training sessions first introduced last year, which involve a series of interactive workshops run by practising fleet managers. The 30-minute workshops will tackle key fleet topics and are the perfect forum to find out more about the latest issues in fleet management.

Meanwhile, halls 1-3 of the Silverstone Wing will again play host to a wide-ranging fleet exhibition boasting a diverse array of exhibitors. This area will also provide Show visitors with the chance to hold face-to-face meetings and socially interact with exhibitors and other visitors alike.

This year’s Show sold-out its existing footprint before Christmas, prompting organisers to make additional space available in hall 3 to cope with the extra demand, on a first come, first served basis.

Jerry Ramsdale added: “Anyone who wants to exhibit at Silverstone in May needs to get in touch as soon as possible as there is a small amount of space still available. Demand has been overwhelming, following the outstanding success of last year’s event, with visitor registrations well ahead of last year.”

For more details of the Fleet World Fleet Show 2015, sponsored by Barclaycard Fuel+ in association with TMC, please visit http://www.thefleetshow.co.uk/ or phone 01727 739160. To register go to: www.thefleetshow.co.uk/visiting