The recent Commercial Vehicle (CV) Show demonstrated its continued importance in the road transport sector, drawing more than 220 exhibitors and around 10,000 visitors to the three-day event. Senior leaders, particularly those keen to upgrade their fleets with the latest trucks, vans, and technology, found the show especially compelling. A diverse array of 180 vehicles, from superlight utility vehicles to heavy articulated trucks, was showcased under one roof, highlighting the breadth of innovation in the industry.
A notable 36% of attendees were company directors or executive management, underscoring the high calibre of the audience. Exhibitors utilising the event's badge scan system reported nearly 13,000 individual meetings, equating to a new business lead being generated every six seconds—a testament to the show's effectiveness in facilitating business connections.
Reflecting the industry's shift towards sustainable transport, the Destination Net Zero zone was a key feature of the show. This dedicated area highlighted the latest in zero emission technology, with major players like Iveco, Mercedes-Benz, Renault Trucks, and Scania presenting their newest green vehicles. Alex Williams, Head of Brand, Sustainability and Communications at Renault Trucks, praised the event, stating, "This year’s CV Show provided us with a great opportunity to showcase two of our latest Renault Trucks products and have productive conversations with a number of visiting operators."
The CV Show's influence extended beyond individual vehicle showcases. Leading businesses such as B-ON, Ford, Harris Maxus, Isuzu, National Highways, Schmitz Cargobull, and Totalkare used the event to highlight their offerings to the UK's road transport sector. Veronica Grigoriou, Director of Communications and PR at B-ON, remarked, "The CV Show is one of the most important events of the year for B-ON. The perfect mix of customer decision-makers and supplier partners at the show proved it again this year – and we’re already planning for next year!"
Adding to the event's value was a new seminar programme featuring nearly 50 expert speakers. These sessions provided delegates with insights on introducing zero emission vehicles to their fleets, developing and retaining talent, and attracting the next generation of professionals to an industry vital to Britain's economy. Susan Kitchener, Executive Lead of the Commercial Vehicle Show, commented, "The CV Show is a red-letter date in the road transport calendar, attracting the most senior people in the sector, all of whom are keen to futureproof their enterprises. It is the event where the industry gets business done and exhibitors and visitors alike are already making plans to keep the conversation going, and to be back at NEC Birmingham next April."
Looking ahead, the Commercial Vehicle Show 2025 is set to be held at the NEC Birmingham from 29 April to 1 May, promising another opportunity for the industry to come together, showcase innovations, and drive business forward.
