Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the best fleet for a new purchase based on multi-objective optimization on the basis of ratio (MOORA), reference point and multi-MOORA methods. This study further identifies critical parameters for fleet performance monitoring and exploring optimum range of critical parameters using Monte Carlo simulation. At the end of this study, fleet maintenance management and operations have been discussed in the perspectives of risk management. Design/methodology/approach Fleet categories and fleet performance monitoring parameters have been identified using the literature survey and Delphi method. Further, real-time data has been analyzed using MOORA, reference point and multi-MOORA methods. Taguchi and full factorial design of experiment (DOE) are used to investigate critical parameters for fleet performance monitoring. Findings Fleet performance monitoring is done based on fuel consumption (FC), CO2 emission (CE), coolant temperature (CT), fleet rating, revenue generation (RG), fleet utilization, total weight and ambient temperature. MOORA, reference point and multi-MOORA methods suggested the common best alternative for a particular category of the fleet (compact, hatchback and sedan). FC and RG are the critical parameters for monitoring the fleet performance. Research limitations/implications The geographical aspects have not been considered for this study. Practical implications A pilot run of 300 fleets shows saving of Rs. 2,611,013/- (US$36,264.065), which comprises total maintenance cost [Rs. 1,749,033/- (US$24,292.125)] and FC cost [Rs. 861,980/- (US$11,971.94)] annually. Social implications Reduction in CE (4.83%) creates a positive impact on human health. The reduction in the breakdown maintenance of fleet improves the reliability of fleet services. Originality/value This study investigates the most useful parameters for fleet management are FC, CE, CT. Taguchi DOE and full factorial DOE have identified FC and RG as a most critical parameters for fleet health/performance monitoring.