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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 along with regional Tour stops, the Fleet Safety Conference, and DeliveryCon, for the last-mile delivery fleet market. 

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. He has appeared on Good Morning America and has been sourced and quoted in national media such as Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and National Public Radio.

James McKinley stands on the stage during the 2026 CAR Conference and speaks about his acceptance of the Value Champion of the Year Award.
Videosby Chris BrownMay 8, 2026

CAR2026: James McKinley Wins Value Champion of the Year

James McKinley of City Rent a Truck was named the inaugural Fleet Value Champion at the CAR Conference for his data-driven approach to fleet lifecycle management and vehicle remarketing.

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Chris Brown and CEO of Anew Solutions CEO Austin Schutte stand across from each other in a thumbnail for a video describing Schutte's fleet and business endeavors.
Videosby Chris BrownMay 8, 2026

How One Company is Streamlining Fleet Upfit, Titling, & Delivery

Anew Solutions CEO Austin Schutte joins AF on the Move to discuss fleet upfitting, delivery logistics, and the importance of speed to completion in today’s fleet operations.

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group photo of BBL team
Articlesby Chris BrownMay 8, 2026

How Does a Mid-Major FMC Compete? Ask BBL Fleet

This Pittsburgh-based FMC built a technology-first culture, sustained double-digit organic growth, and expanded its Midwest footprint through a recent acquisition. How did it happen?

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overhead photo of cars in parking lot with data graphic overlay
Newsby Chris BrownMay 7, 2026

Report: 36% of Fleet Managers Are Delaying Replacements

Element’s 2026 Market Pulse Report finds fleets are slowing replacement cycles amid tariffs, economic uncertainty, and rising costs.

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Chris Brown sits across from safety experft at Lifesaver mobile in an interview about distracted driving and phone use tech.
Videosby Chris BrownMay 1, 2026

Reducing Risk by Eliminating Phone Use Behind the Wheel

Distracted driving remains one of the most persistent risks in fleet operations. New approaches focus on removing mobile device use entirely while adding real-time safety support.

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Image of a fleet manager with fleet on left, data on right of his face.

Fleet Manager or Data Strategist? You’re Both

The job hasn’t changed, but the expectations have. Do you have a plan on how to use AI to thrive?

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pumping fuel with wildfire smoke in background
Articlesby Chris BrownApril 30, 2026

How Fleets Keep Fuel Flowing During Disasters

U.S. Bank Voyager explains the most common fleet payment failures during emergencies and how proactive planning helps keep vehicles moving when conditions deteriorate.

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Clipboards with flooded cars in background.
Articlesby Chris BrownApril 30, 2026

Adapting Fleet Policy When Disasters Strike

In the middle of natural disasters fleet managers must shift priorities to protect people and assets. What policy items should be loosened, and when should the line be held?

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collage of conference speakers
Articlesby Chris BrownApril 30, 2026

CAR 2026 Recap Part 2: Closing the Gap Between Data & Remarketing Value

The second half of CAR 2026 examined how fleets can translate lifecycle strategy, vehicle data, and market shifts into higher real-world results.

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An Automotive Fleet State of the Fleet Industry template describing fleet revenue in 2026.
Videosby Chris BrownApril 29, 2026

Matt Dyer Says Fleet Is Now a Revenue Driver — What Does That Mean for 2026?

As costs and complexity escalate, Merchants Fleet’s CEO outlines how fleets must rethink uptime and TCO to drive business performance.

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