New category honours operators embracing net zero, AI and autonomous technology as iconic industry awards celebrate four decades of recognising excellence across UK road transport
The 2026 Motor Transport Awards are now open for entries and for this year there is a new category – the Future Fleets Award.
Road freight transport is undergoing some of the most profound changes since the invention of the diesel engine, with the arrival of net zero emissions, AI, skills shortages, cybercrime, autonomous vehicles and massive changes to the workforce and infrastructure required to operate in this brave new world.
The award will go to the organisation that can demonstrate it is investing in advanced vehicles and infrastructure, building innovation into its company culture and using new advanced technologies like AI.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Motor Transport Awards, which are still regarded as the benchmark for excellence among UK road transport fleet operators, truck manufacturers and other product and service providers.
Back in 1986 when the Motor Transport Awards were launched, Margaret Thatcher was prime minister, interest rates were 10%, Liverpool did the double by winning the FA Cup and the First Division title and the first Haulier of the Year was C Butt, a successful family firm that was acquired by Menzies Distribution in December last year.
Winning a Motor Transport Award has been described as a “milestone in our company’s history” and “the best night of my life” by previous winners. The iconic bronze trophies remain unique in an industry crowded with lesser awards and always take pride of place in the winners’ reception or CEO’s office. They are so highly valued because they are judged by a team of over 50 senior figures within the transport industry assembled who guarantee a fair and independent judging process.
The Motor Transport Awards are free to enter and there are clear guidelines on how to put together a strong entry within each category description. The Awards are open to any fleet operator running 11 or more commercial vehicles - you have to be in it to win it so make sure you enter the 2026 Awards.
Entries close on 13 March 2026.
