New trucks on show

By Colin Windell

Several new model trucks will be launched at the CV Show that opens in Birmingham, UK, in a few days time – but truckmakers are being very cagey about what the new models will be.

The exhibition space is full with the biggest names from across the commercial vehicle spectrum. From truck, van and trailer manufacturers, to fork lift trucks, insurers, tyre companies, telematics, training providers and fuels and lubricants suppliers, the CV Show is the premier destination and one-stop-shop for everyone involved in the CV world.

In 2017, the CV Show exceeded 20 000 visitors, and this year’s event retains the larger floorplan to accommodate the rising numbers of exhibitors. Visitors can view all the latest details including the floorplan, exhibitor and product locator listed under the ‘For Visitors’ tab.

Some of the biggest names in the world’s van and LCV industry will be among the major stars of this year’s show, including the UK’s LCV market leader Ford and the second-most prolific CV brand, Volkswagen. They will be joined by Citroën, Fiat Professional, Isuzu, Iveco, LDV, MAN, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Peugeot, Renault, SsangYong and Toyota.

While most of the manufacturers are remaining tight-lipped about new developments, there will be a number of new model launches at the three-day event. There will be a wealth of new products seen for the first time, as the show provides a shop window for many of the UK’s top converters and bodybuilders, who supply anything from lighting and racking systems through to bespoke vehicle bodies.

CV Show Director, Rob Skelton, says: “One of the great things about this show is it clearly demonstrates the diversity and adaptability of the LCV sector. Not only do we have key manufacturers offering British customers some of the best vans and light trucks in the world, but we also have UK-based convertors and specialists who are able to transform those vehicles into bespoke products that are built for very specific purposes, in turn creating jobs and providing vital revenue to the UK economy.”

The Workshop Zone in Hall 4 will be the shop window into a massive range of products covering everything needed to keep vehicles running at maximum efficiency; from Original Equipment (OE) components and replacement parts, to maintenance management systems, garage, workshop and bodyshop equipment.

For those transporting temperature-controlled goods, the Cool Zone in hall 3A is an essential visit. A huge range of refrigerated vehicles and bodywork, side by side with the latest fridge units, monitoring equipment and other products specific to cold chain operations will be on display.

Among the advanced technologies appearing at the show will be the latest in driver safety and assistance systems, cloud-based vehicle management software, and innovative production techniques that reduce waste, improve quality and increase efficiency.

CV Show Director, Rob Skelton, says: “The theme of technology is at the forefront of the commercial vehicle industry, and the show is a great platform to show that. That is supported by the Innovation Hub, which we introduced to the show last year. We have a lot planned for it this year; a seminar theatre where we address emerging technologies that are happening in the industry, which is through expert speakers and audience participation.”