The Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) has announced its shortlist for the 2003 "Archies", the annual awards for excellence.

In the safety category, Atlet's S3 stability support system, Linde's direct-drive hydrostatic transmission as featured on the 39X, and Toyota's manual handling campaign were shortlisted.

In the environment category, BT Rolatruc's water-based hydraulic system, Linde's environment-friendly 39X, Nissan's new Tri-Cat emissions reduction system and Still's R60 Compact got those companies into the finals.

Only two companies made the ergonomics shortlist, Jungheinrich's ECE order picker, nominated for its one-handed steering wheel, and Still's SD Double-Decker, which offers an adjustment range to suit up to 95 percent of all physiques.

Innovation was the most fiercely contested category. Atlet's S3 stability support system featured again, as did Linde's 39X for its new suspension isolation system. The Still Optispeed speed limiter and Toyota's Power Keep function also made it to the finals.

FLTA chairman Brian Warbrick said the nominees deserved credit for reaching the finals.

"They demonstrate our industry's continuing drive to achieve excellence. Whoever steps onto the stage at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on February 8 to collect their Archie will be a worthy winner," he said.

Fork Talk is a new Forkliftaction.com News service available to non-profit forklift and related industry bodies around the world. If you would like to have your association's news included in this column, email www.forkliftaction.com.