As the Commercial Vehicle Show’s third day comes to a close this afternoon, it’s been another exceptional year for Britain’s best attended road transport event. With more than 200 exhibitors under one roof, with every vehicle type on display from the smallest vans to the very largest zero emission trucks, it’s been the perfect place to meet the future of the sector.
We take a look at some of the highlights, from new event streams and electric vehicle launches to fleet management innovations and workshop equipment demos.
THE ROAD AHEAD
This year saw more than 30 industry experts and influencers taking to the stage at an all-new seminar programme – aptly named The Road Ahead.
The packed conference-style event provided insight and analysis on everything from net zero fleets and regulation to workforce upskilling and wellbeing, with 18 speaker and panel sessions taking place across three full days.
Speaking about electric charging infrastructure at one of the sessions, Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive said: “Truck operators facing higher capital expenditure, a paucity of dedicated charging infrastructure, planning constraints and grid delays to depot upgrades, need a next generation incentive and infrastructure strategy and planning reform if they are to invest in the greener future the country needs.”
FORD
On its stand, Ford Pro revealed a new extended range option for the E-Transit.
The new model features an 89 kWh useable battery capacity for a maximum driving range of up to 402 km, as well as faster AC and DC charging performance.
Customers also benefit from extended two-year unlimited distance service intervals – double the current one-year interval.
Like all E-Transit commercial vehicles, the extended range model is fully integrated with the Ford Pro platform of connected charging and software solutions to help customers optimise energy management, streamline servicing, and minimise downtime and cost of ownership.
Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro, Europe said: “The extended range option for E-Transit is another example of the Ford Pro commitment to making high-productivity electric fleets a reality across Europe.”
RENAULT
Renault had its electric line-up on display, with the recently-launched Master E-Tech one of the highlights on its stand.
The van features improved aerodynamics, cutting edge connectivity, a special braking system, up to 20 ADAS features, a range of up to 285 miles and payload of 1,625 kg.
Renaut offers a pure electric version of every model in its LCV range, with the Master being joined by the Trafic E-Tech electric and the Kangoo E-Tech electric.
As well as the all-electric LCV line-up staff were on hand to talk about Renault brand Mobilize’s new Fleet@Home offering, which provides a charging solution for businesses who wish to give drivers the choice of charging at home, at work and on the road.
MAXUS
Maxus unveiled two new electric vehicles at this year’s event – the Mifa 7 seven-seater MPV and eDeliver LCV.
The Mifa 7 MPV joins the larger Mifa 9 launched in 2022 and is aimed at taxi drivers, executive chauffeurs, hotels and hospitality providers.
The vehicle is offered in two variants, including a Premium trim model that features a 90kWh battery, giving a range of up to 298 miles (WLTP combined), and paired with a 245hp electric motor.
In addition, there are Luxury and Elite models, fitted with a 77kWh battery offering 255 miles WLTP combined.
Also, the manufacturer unveiled its eDeliver 5 eLCV, available to order now, and offered in one length and two heights, with double sliding side door to the side and a double opening at the rear.
Payload is 1,200kg and cargo volume is 6.6m3 or 7.6m3 for the high-roof version.
The model launched at the show features a 64kWh battery, giving a WLTP combined range of 208 miles. The 163hp electric motor delivers peak torque of 240Nm.
Mark Barrett, Managing Director of group franchises at Harris Group, distributor of Maxus vans in the UK and Ireland, said: “The eDeliver 5 combines impressive range with adaptable design, while the Mifa 7 blends luxury comfort with cutting edge technology and efficiency.”
IVECO
The IVECO eDaily ‘Mobile Power Station’ made its debut at the show as part of the EV Café Village.
Its modular battery setup and up to 50kW ePTO onboard power is able to power heavy-duty equipment and bodies such as compactors, fire-fighting equipment, road maintenance machinery, and gully cleaners.
The Mobile Power Station is based on a 4.25-tonne, three-battery eDaily (42S14e) with 15kW high voltage ePTO.
Utilising its onboard power, this van’s cargo volume contains the ‘Power Wall’, a display of energy flow from the vehicle’s batteries to various outlets.
Show attendees were able to charge their smart devices and laptops at the van which was simultaneously powering various items such as TV screens.
Mike Cutts, IVECO UK Light Business-line Director, said: “The Mobile Power Station vehicle has been built to showcase this ePTO power, with operators already using the option to complete demanding missions.”
JAAMA
Fleet software provider Jaama showcased the latest version of its Key2 fleet management software platform, which can manage all sizes of commercial vehicle fleets.
Jaama’s Key2 manages more than 1.6 million vehicles for its fleet customers and its new Maintenance Exchange, Compliance Manager and MyTechnician App software has been developed with CV fleets in mind.
Andrew Holgate, Jaama’s CEO said: “CV fleets are coming under more pressure than ever to reduce operating costs for their drivers and vehicles to remain compliant.
“Key2 can play a valuable part in CV operators managing both of those challenges.”
TOTALKARE
Workshop equipment specialist Totalkare displayed its range of mobile column lifts, as well as a two-post lift, vehicle inspection pit, mobile brake tester, tyre changers, wheel alignment and diagnostic equipment.
After announcing a recent partnership with Hunter Engineering, a manufacturer of wheel alignment and balancing technology, Totalkare staff performed live demonstrations with its heavy duty wheel alignment system.
Its precise sensors and software enable accurate measurement and adjustment of wheel alignment parameters, enhancing vehicle safety, tyre longevity, and fuel efficiency.
Steve Braund, Marketing Manager at Totalkare said: “The CV Show remains a key event in Totalkare’s calendar – meeting new customers and catching up with existing ones to showcase our ever-expanding portfolio of commercial vehicle workshop equipment is always a highlight for us.”
