Models were launched, deals were made, and stars were met – so where do we start with a round-up of another successful show?
Big launches from the big manufacturers
There were plenty of big launches to get excited about this year. Dacia had Countdown’s Rachel Riley on-hand to crunch the numbers for its first foray into the commercial sector with the Duster Commercial.
Vauxhall, with the help of a host of England football legends, brought along its new Corsavan and its enhanced chassis, while the new Euro-6 compliant Citroën Berlingo lit up the show floor with a range of new powerplants.
Mercedes-Benz Vans, not to be upstaged, launched its new Vito. And, having been named Best Newcomer by Trade Van Driver magazine already, it’s off to a great start.
Other notable launches included the debut of Transdek’s Duet range and the unveiling of Terberg DTS’ next generation specialist distribution tractor DT183LE.
New products making industry more efficient
It wasn’t just the manufacturers showing off their new wares, with attendees getting the chance to test out a wide range of new technology and aftermarket products.
BOC launched its new eco-friendly Frostcruise truck and trailer refrigeration system, an exciting development in the market because it claims to offer a zero operating carbon footprint and zero emissions.
Commercial vehicle remarketing specialist Manheim launched four new commercial vehicle sales channels, including a new mobile ‘pop up’ unit. MiX Telematics launched its forward-and-rear-facing video camera, MiX Vision, Penny Hydraulics launched its new crane range, and Continental Automotive launched its easy-to-use DTCO 2.2 tachograph.
With the General Election drawing ever-nearer, the CV Show was an ideal time to voice the needs of the industry. The Road Haulage Association, launching its Manifesto, called for a cut in fuel duty. The Freight Transport Association, meanwhile, called for better support from the government for the industry.
Awards season
On Tuesday, Hiab crowned its World Crane Championship winner, with Denmark’s Johnny Jensen proving the best of the 16 finalists that travelled to Birmingham to compete. The Make It Challenge also crowned its winners, with students from Our Lady & St Chad’s Secondary School in Wolverhampton awarded for their entry.
The CV Show halls also saw the Trade Van Driver Awards handed out to the likes of the Fiat Ducato (Trader’s Choice), Citroen Berlingo (Best Small Van), Fiat Fiorino (Best City Van) and the aforementioned Mercedes-Benz Vito (Best Newcomer).
Finally, the 2015 CV Show marked the beginning of a series of celebrations for the Ford Transit, which marks its 50th anniversary this year.
