The Commercial Vehicle Show is the UK's premier industry event of the year, featuring over 200 exhibitors, numerous key decision-makers, and industry leaders.
Last year, the show attracted more than 11,000 visitors who witnessed the unveiling of new models and products, explored potential partnerships, and learned about innovative solutions.
Although 2023 won't be a spectacular year for new model releases — we’ve already seen the Ford Ranger and Transit Custom, and the Volkswagen Amarok — there's still a lot to look forward to. Attendees of the CV Show at the NEC in Birmingham from April 18-20 can expect to see the following new models, products, and services, with more announcements to come as the event approaches.
CV Show Van Debuts
Ford will use the CV Show to reveal the next-generation Transit Custom to the UK public for the first time. Initially available as the all-electric E-Transit Custom, the new model boasts several notable innovations, including the tilting steering wheel which converts into a meal tray or laptop desk.
The existing Transit Custom will also receive a plug-in hybrid upgrade, with the Custom PHEV featuring an electric motor with a 2.5-litre petrol engine operating as a range-extending generator.
The Iveco eDaily makes it to UK shores for the first time, ahead of its launch later in the year. The truck-based eDaily demonstrates the same strengths as the regular diesel-powered van but with a city-friendly zero-emission drivetrain.
Also going electric is the new Maxus e Deliver 7. The new model sits between the compact e Deliver 3 van and the sizeable e Deliver 9 model. Setting its sights on the Transit Custom, the new model is the third electric van in the Maxus range. The production-ready Maxus T90EV pickup will also be on display; this electric truck is the first EV pickup on the UK market, beating forthcoming rivals from SsangYong and Ford to the punch.
While it may look familiar thanks to sharing much with the Renault Kangoo, the new Nissan Townstar (below) will be on display. This electric-powered van replaces the NV200, offering a compact LCV for the city but, with a 183-mile range, can stretch its legs on the open road, too.
Watt has partnered with ETRUX, an electric commercial vehicle specialist, to accelerate the adoption of next-generation electric light commercial vehicles. The alliance will unveil its first 3.5-tonne cab and chassis prototype, the eCV1, at the show.
Heavy Trucks
In the truck segment, Iveco will showcase the S-Way Natural Gas model, while Renault Trucks will exhibit its 18-tonne E-Tech D Wide rigid electric truck. Glasgow-based Hydrogen Vehicle Systems will present a 40-tonne tractor unit powered by a hydrogen fuel cell. Volta will display the world's first purpose-built electric truck, aiming to revolutionise commercial vehicle operations and deliver a next-generation driving experience.
Van Safety and Security Technology
VisionTrack will concentrate on road safety, displaying its AI video telematics solutions. The company will launch an AI detection camera to identify vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and scooter riders. The camera disregards street furniture and provides an in-cab monitor display with a verbal warning, including the location of the road user relative to the vehicle.
VisionTrack's cloud-based NARA post-analysis software evaluates camera footage for proactive risk intervention and incident verification. The system automatically filters out false incidents, saving time and money for vehicle operators as fleet managers can avoid sifting through hours of video footage when no incident has occurred.
Brigade will exhibit the advanced Careye premium AI camera, boasting predictive capabilities. The company will also introduce the Brigade Van range, which equips operators with high-resolution cameras, sensors, dashboard cameras, and digital recording systems.
Exeros is poised to reveal an array of advanced vehicle camera solutions incorporating AI-powered predictive capabilities. Complementing the company's video-focused technology, Exeros has developed a streamlined, integrated infrastructure called VideMatics, which simplifies fleet management and provides comprehensive fleet visibility. By combining traditional telematics functions with complex video data and AI innovations, the Video-First platform serves as a holistic hub for fleet operators across various industries.
Cameramatics will showcase its cutting-edge commercial vehicle camera solutions, highlighting a smart video-based fleet safety and performance system designed to provide immediate support in protecting drivers and fleets. Benefits include accident prevention, promotion of safe driving habits, reduced insurance expenses, and protection against false claims.
Motormax will present its fleet safety solutions, featuring live demonstrations throughout the event. Its product lineup includes reversing cameras, vehicle CCTV, and an assortment of AI and machine-learning solutions aimed at enhancing fleet safety and efficiency.
Van Accessories and Equipment
Following its successful introduction last year, Tell TVL's Crime Prevention Zone returns in collaboration with the International Security Register (ISR). This innovative platform encourages companies and van owners to report theft incidents anonymously, complete with images, to Tell TVL's dynamic online community and law enforcement agencies. The initiative aims to provide van owners with up-to-date information to protect their property against emerging theft methods. TVL Group is also prepared to unveil a range of security products.
The Locks4Vans team will be available to inform visitors about the protective features of its products against vehicle break-ins and offer an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse into its rigorous testing processes. Locks4Vans recently expanded its protective products by 30%, and staff will discuss why its anti-peel kit is among the top products for 2023. The company will also share details about its new partnership with the AA, which now provides Key Assist emergency support to Locks4Vans customers.
During last year's show, Fischer Panda UK entered an exclusivity agreement with Autoclima, enhancing its offering of integrated power and Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems for the road transport industry. This year's event will offer Fischer Panda UK the chance to showcase Autoclima's AC systems to the UK commercial vehicle market and engage with its new service partner network.
Workshop equipment specialist Totalkare intends to display fixed lift installations and various demonstration vehicles alongside other equipment. The company will exhibit over 20 heavy-duty and light commercial workshop equipment items from its extensive portfolio, including mobile column lifts, a two-post lift, an in-ground lift, a vehicle inspection pit, a mobile brake tester, tyre changer, wheel alignment, and wheel balancer.
Gearmate products remain essential to the UK and Europe's vehicle accessory market, and the UK-based company will introduce a new innovative product at the show. Van and pick-up operators can view the latest developments on display, with racking and storage options available.
Road Ahead and Workshop Theatres
A dynamic live theatre program is set to entertain and inform attendees amidst an impressive showcase of vehicles, services, and components. The Road Ahead Theatre will provide a glimpse into the industry's future, while the Workshop Theatre, in collaboration with Commercial Vehicle Workshop, will explore in-depth engineering expertise.
A distinguished lineup of speakers will discuss the shift towards zero-emission vehicles, including Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive; Rod McKenzie, RHA Executive Director of Communications; and Mike Cutts, Director of Light Vehicle Business at Iveco. In the Workshop Theatre, attendees can anticipate a variety of expert presentations on topics such as battery technology, driver assistance systems, repair certification, and more.
“Road transport operators need to make big decisions about which vehicles they need and how best to run them, for both today’s business needs and tomorrow’s opportunities,”
explains CV Show sales and marketing manager Tim Mustin.
“The Commercial Vehicle Show has always been the best place for visitors to get the latest information and advice on every aspect of running a fleet. The Show offers the latest trucks, vans and trailers, vehicle security solutions, telematics innovations, repair and maintenance advice and much more. Businesses can make all their annual purchasing decisions in one place in the halls of the UK’s top exhibition venue.”
Enjoyed this? Read our latest news:
- First sketches of First Hydrogen's second generation van
-
Upgrade for the VW Touran
- The UK's most expensive parking permits
-
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles ends 2022 with half a billion profit
- How to swerve Easter holiday roadworks hell
Where To Next?
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car and van deals, sign up to our newsletter.
Looking for a great leasing deal? Check out our incredible range of van leasing deals..
Read our latest van reviews and find the right model for you.
Want to know more about van leasing? Take a look at our comprehensive van leasing guides.
Interested in everything motoring? Why not catch up on all the latest van leasing news.
