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.

Articles•by Chris Brown•October 11, 2022

What is Scott Painter’s Plan for 23k Electric Vehicles?

In explaining strategy for his new all-electric subscription startup Autonomy, Painter shares which manufacturers are poised to win the EV race, why Fair failed, and how his large EV order holds clues for where EVs will grow and how they’re used.

News•by Chris Brown•October 6, 2022

How a Tight & Declining Wholesale Market Will Affect Spring 2023

Hurricane damage, high interest rates, softening used values, and a slowing economy will all have some effect on the coming used vehicle market. The greater issue is even lower sales — as the historic decline in the lease return rate from 2022 meets up with a big drop in lease maturities and lower dealer consignments.

Videos•by Chris Brown•October 3, 2022

A Fleet Owner Shares His Goals and Process for Electrification

David Ziker, owner of Ziker Cleaners in South Bend, Indiana, runs a business in which sustainability — from a profitability as well as environmental standpoint — is paramount.

News•by Chris Brown•September 29, 2022

Hurricane Ian: Work Vehicles Respond

Twitter users provide an up-close perspective to utility fleets’ preparations for cleanup, vocational fleets on the ready to respond, and organizations incurring damage to their own vehicles and property.

Articles•by Chris Brown•September 26, 2022

9 Tips to Increase Fleet Vehicle Uptime

In this supply constrained environment, it’s time for fleets to rethink parts ordering and stocking, get drivers more involved in the maintenance mission, and let go of vendor relationships that are no longer useful.

Videos•by Chris Brown•September 13, 2022

Key Considerations for EV Charging at Home

For fleets that have drivers with home chargers, how is best to manage charging equipment and installation, and what do you do when employees leave? Build out your plan with these tips from Jay Collins.

FleetTakes•by Chris Brown•September 6, 2022

FedEx Ground Contractor Dispute: What Now?

Spencer Patton, the de facto leader of FedEx Ground contractors, had his routes terminated and his business sued by FedEx. But the top challenges facing delivery fleets — fuel, maintenance, labor costs, and supply-chain delays — aren’t going away soon.

Videos•by Chris Brown•August 29, 2022

Automotive Fleet Magazine