We’ve crossed the finish line for this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show – more than 300 exhibitors, more than 160 vehicles on display (including 50 zero emission ones) and packed-out halls as the industry came together again.SMMT has been a proud partner of the event since it began 25 years ago and it was clear just how far the industry – manufacturers and fleet operators alike – has come in that time.
Tuesday brought several exciting vehicle launches, including a global debut with international media in attendance. Highlights included a traditional car manufacturer entering the light commercial market, the unveiling of a fully electric pick-up, and new players entering the UK market.
Across the three days, a packed seminar programme featured expert panels discussing the key challenges of decarbonising the transport industry and the critical need for government support on charging infrastructure. Other sessions focused on attracting new talent, developing future skills, and preparing tomorrow’s workforce. Technology was also a central theme, with sessions on automated vehicles, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
SMMT hosted two dinners at the show, welcoming 30 guests to a Leaders Dinner, giving managing directors and senior peers a chance to recognise the importance of the commercial vehicle sector. On Wednesday, we held a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Dinner with more than 20 industry professionals, focused on understanding the support SMMT members need in this vital area.
There was a real buzz in the halls, testament to the past year’s strategic partnership between SMMT, the RHA and Nineteen Group. There was further positivity at the start of the week, meanwhile, with the announcement that Nineteen Group has now acquired the Commercial Vehicle Show, adding it to their portfolio of highly successful and growing industry trade events. SMMT will remain a vital partner, helping to ensure the show continues, as it has been for the past 25 years, to be the premier platform for the commercial vehicle sector in the UK.
