Chris Brown

Associate Publisher

As associate publisher of Automotive Fleet, Auto Rental News, and Fleet Forward, Chris Brown covers all aspects of fleets, transportation, and mobility. Chris produces and emcees the annual International Car Rental Show, the largest event serving the auto rental industry worldwide. Chris also created and produces the Fleet Forward Conference.

Chris has won publishing awards for editorial excellence, including a Jesse H. Neal Award, three Folio: Eddie Awards, and three Maggie Awards. As an internationally recognized expert on fleets, auto rental, and mobility, Chris has spoken at industry events in the U.S., Brazil, Ireland, and China. Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and National Public Radio.

Two people in suits point at a laptop displaying data and pie charts.

Articles•by Chris Brown•September 7, 2025

How Maintenance Costs Affect Fleet Replacement

A scenario analysis of maintenance-only forecasts shows how mileage-based events can drive TCO volatility.

“A large cargo ship loaded with colorful shipping containers docked at a port, with cranes in the background. Bold headline text over the image reads: ‘Fleet Takes: Tariffs Are a Waiting Game.’”

FleetTakes•by Chris Brown•September 4, 2025

Tariffs and Fleets: Where’s the Pain?

Suppliers are absorbing most of the costs for now. But that may not last.

overhead shot of cars in parking lot with text.

Articles•by Chris Brown•September 3, 2025

What Do Fleet Managers Say About Their FMCs?

This informal survey offers a snapshot into how fleet managers rate their fleet management companies across services. strategy, and satisfaction.

Graphic promoting Fleet Forward: The Tour speaker roundup, featuring headshots of 10 confirmed speakers with their names and companies, scheduled for September 9, 2025, in Somerset, NJ.

News•by Chris Brown•September 2, 2025

Fleet Forward Tour Hits Somerset, NJ, Sept. 9: Why This Gathering Matters Now

With EV incentives expiring, tariffs looming, and costs rising, the Somerset stop presents fleet managers with a timely opportunity to learn, connect, and take action.

Videos•by Chris Brown•August 28, 2025

Geotab at 25: Neil Cawse Gets Candid on Growth, Disruption, and the Next Era of Telematics

Geotab’s founder and CEO reflects on the company’s path, sharing early struggles, breakthrough wins, his succession plan, and how disruption will continue to transform fleet telematics.

Articles•by Chris Brown•August 19, 2025

McKinstry Puts Electric Pickups to the Test as Daily Jobsite Workhorses

By deploying more than 100 electric vehicles — including fully upfitted Silverado EV pickups — in demanding construction and service roles, the Seattle-based builder is showing how electrification can work beyond pilot programs when matched carefully to duty cycles, infrastructure, and driver readiness.