World-leading pioneers of truck and van technology headed to Birmingham this week to the Commercial Vehicle Show, providing a massive opportunity for industry to showcase the latest innovations currently available in Britain. Taking place over three days and all under one roof, more than 200 exhibitors set out their stalls – including around 118 vehicles, as well as advanced components, state-of-the-art solutions and all-new services – giving thousands of UK fleet operators the perfect chance to give their business a competitive edge.
Government has an important part to play in encouraging operators to switch, as made clear in a new SMMT report published at the event – particularly to deliver a ‘next-generation’ Plug-in Truck Grant and the depot and public infrastructure needed to power the very greenest vehicles. It was a highlight therefore to welcome Shadow Minister for Roads, the Rt Hon Bill Esterson MP on the second day. He visited a number of stands and SMMT members to hear about their priorities for the years ahead, with engagement between industry and politicians as important as ever during an election year.
Exhibitor feedback has been positive with quality leads being generated, helped not least by a number of exciting vehicle and product launches that make the Show the UK’s premier industry event. As we transition to net zero, the market is evolving with more competitive and high-tech vehicles features, which as evident this week is encouraging more operators – who typically have long-term loyalty to their brand – to consider switching to new technology.
