A new year is the time to look ahead and not rest on our laurels, and SMMT has already planned a series of events planned over the coming months that will offer key opportunities to boost your business in 2026.
At the end of January, we will be holding our first Regional Networking event of the year, taking place across the Irish Sea in Northern Ireland at the Wrightbus manufacturing facility. Wrightbus has been at the forefront of transport innovation since 1946. Headquartered in Ballymena, the company first established itself as a reputable traditional vehicle bodybuilder before evolving into a pioneer of low-emission public service buses. It now operates under the ownership of JCB heir Jo Bamford.
This is a practical, commercially focused event for the automotive supply chain, bringing together manufacturers and suppliers to discuss key opportunities and challenges in the region. Wrightbus will provide insight into the current landscape and the issues that matter most to the supply chain. The event will also include a tour of the manufacturing facility and networking over a light lunch.
In March, SMMT will hold its flagship Summit – Electrified, now in its fifth year. SMMT Electrified is the UK automotive industry’s leading forum focused on the transition to zero emission vehicles, bringing together senior figures from government, manufacturing and the wider mobility ecosystem. The event provides a vital platform to explore the policies, investment and collaboration needed to accelerate the shift to EVs and other zero-emission technologies, supporting the UK’s journey to net zero.
This year’s programme covers a broad range of topics, and as with previous years, will feature a strong commercial vehicle focus. Lisa Brankin, Chair and Managing Director of Ford of Britain and Ireland, will join our moderator Katie Derham for a keynote fireside discussion. With sales quotas for LCV OEMs rising to 24% in 2026 under the ZEV Mandate, Brankin will share key perspectives on the challenges facing the UK’s leading zero-emission van manufacturer.
The Commercial Vehicle panel will be announced in the coming days. SMMT members are eligible for a complimentary place, but we encourage early registration — last year’s event had a waiting list and some members missed out. Reserve your place here.
Finally, looking ahead to April, the Commercial Vehicle Show is gathering pace. Hall 5 is now sold out, with a small number of stands still available in Hall 4. SMMT is currently finalising the Day One seminar programme in the main theatre. For more information, click here.
