THE search starts today for the very best in fleet, with the launch of the 2002 Fleet News Awards.

These annual industry 'Oscars' recognise the best company cars, best fleet suppliers and best fleet decision-makers, based on the opinions of an expert panel of judges.

Fleet decision-makers will play a key role in the judging process this year, because we are asking Fleet NewsNet readers to nominate their best fleet supply companies, best company cars, and best fleet manufacturer.

Companies can also nominate themselves for four award categories this year: Environmental Initiative of the Year, Innovation of the Year, Best Online Initiative and Best Company Car Tax Initiative.

Nominations can be made by registering online and completing the online form. Online nominations will close at the end of the year, when a shortlist will be drawn up for each category.

New awards this year will see fleet managers recognised from operators of small fleets (sub-100 vehicles) right up to the best European Fleet Manager of the Year. More details of the award entry procedures for fleet managers will be given next week.

A jury of fleet managers, wholelife cost experts, residual value specialists, leasing and fleet management directors, and Fleet News will judge the car and van awards and Fleet Manufacturer of the Year award, based on a shortlist created from reader nominations.

Cars and vans will only be eligible if they are launched, on sale and in showrooms by October 31, 2001. Cars and vans launched in November and December 2001, or in 2002 do not qualify.

The awards will be presented at the fleet industry 'night of the year' on Monday, March 18, 2002 at the Le Meridien Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London.