With hundreds of exhibitors as well as key decision-makers from leading fleet operators in attendance, the Commercial Vehicle Show at Birmingham’s NEC between April 29 and May 1, is again set to be the most important industry event of the year.
More than 15,000 people attended the show last year, which, as always, brought together a high quality selection of vehicle manufacturers, converters and service providers.
In the third part of our show preview, we take a look at some of the seminars, speakers and other special events at the 2025 event, which is being run by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) as well as the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and delivered by Nineteen Group.
SEMINARS
The Main Stage
Hosted by SMMT and RHA, this stage in Hall 5 will highlight decarbonisation, the government’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, emerging technologies, and key industry challenges.
Expert speakers will offer insights to drive innovation and sustainability, and the opening day will feature a keynote speech from Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive.
He said: “The CV Show provides a vital platform for operators to engage with manufacturers, policymakers, and providers to navigate the road to net zero.
“As the UK’s largest road transport logistics event, it will focus on the steps required to accelerate fleet electrification, tackle gaps in infrastructure, while showcasing the outstanding vehicle technology available right now for operators to futureproof their business.”
In one of the 30 minute sessions – Decarbonisation – don’t waste the next decade – expert panelists will discuss how the next decade is crucial for decarbonising commercial vehicles, and how the process can be accelerated.
This panel will bring together industry leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities, focusing on battery-electric and hydrogen solutions, the role of regulation, and necessary investments.
Experts include representatives from SMMT, Department for Transport, Ford of Britain and Ireland and Volvo Trucks.
The Technical Stage
New to the show, the Technical Stage in Hall 4 will host toolbox talks designed to engage drivers and fleet managers through interactive, hands-on sessions.
With real-life case studies, live demonstrations, and insights from top innovators and manufacturers, this stage will deliver practical ideas and actionable solutions for implementation in transport organisations.
For example, a 30 minute seminar – Leading Transformation in the UK & Ireland’s Largest and Most Complex Fleets: Tackling Common Challenges with Innovative Solutions, will see a panel of experts discuss their strategies for driving impactful business change.
They will look at how the most common industry challenges can be tackled with innovation, and talk about how they are addressing sustainability, efficiency, safety and technological integration across their large-scale fleets.
Speakers will include senior representatives from Geotab, Lytx, Circet Uk & Ireland, and BT.
Decarbonisation Theatre at The EV Café
The Decarbonisation Theatre at The EV Café in Hall 5 offers a free-to-attend conference delivering expert advice and industry insights.
Key topics include transitioning to zero-emission vehicles, adopting EV fleets, the Zero Emission Van Plan, EV charging solutions, battery technology, and available support for the transition. This programme equips businesses with the knowledge and tools to confidently embrace the electric transformation.
One of the sessions will focus on the role of the start-up company, the challenges of scaling up and how an operator can transform when it already has existing vehicles on the road.
Speakers will include Paul Kirby, Director of The EV Café, Carla Detrieux, Director of Business Development – Volta Trucks, as well as Chris Bunce from Iveco.
TRAINING ZONE
The Training Zone at the show in Hall 4 provides an opportunity for HGV drivers, fleet managers, transport operators, or newcomers to the industry, upskill, enhance their qualifications, and stay compliant in the ever-evolving world of commercial driving.
It offers a variety of learning opportunities tailored to help transport professionals stay compliant and competitive:
. Workshops & Expert Sessions – Attendees can gain insights from industry leaders on critical topics such as driver CPC training, ADR certification, transport compliance, and fleet management.
. Live Demonstrations – Visitors are able to experience hands-on training with simulator-based learning, vehicle handling techniques, and advanced driving skills workshops.
. Skills Bootcamps – This area gives information about fast-tracked access to essential training in defensive driving, load securing, digital tachograph use, and fuel-efficient driving.
. Vocational Qualifications & Apprenticeships – People visiting this section receive information on accredited pathways to boost their credentials in the industry, including HGV licence acquisition, transport manager CPC, and specialist driving qualifications.
DECARBONISATION HUB
Show organisers have partnered with Greenfleet to bring an exclusive first to the event – the Decarbonisation Hub.
This dynamic area will feature a live studio broadcast directly from the show floor and a pavilion of suppliers showcasing cutting-edge solutions.
At the on-site live studio, influential industry leaders, special guests, and speakers will engage in live interviews, bringing interesting insights and as well as inspiring fleet electrification ideas.
DESTINATION NET ZERO
This section of the show, located in Hall 4, enables visitors to explore the newest advancements in electric, hydrogen, and alternative fuel-powered commercial vehicles. Whether an operator is looking for battery-electric HGVs, hydrogen fuel cell trucks, or ultra-efficient hybrid solutions, they will find the latest technology ready to hit the road.
COMMERCIAL INDUSTRY AWARDS
Motor Trader has launched its Commercial Industry Awards this year, which will take place at the Hilton Metropole NEC on 29 April. As the official awards event for the 2025 Commercial Vehicle Show, they recognise excellence across dealers, suppliers, and service providers in the commercial transport sector.
The event will feature categories for dealers, suppliers, manufacturers, and innovation, offering a night of glamour, networking, and celebration.
Mike Costain, event director of the Commercial Vehicle Show, said: “This year’s event will not only highlight the technologies shaping the future of road transport but also provide businesses with the insights and solutions they need to thrive.
“Whether you’re looking to enhance efficiency, improve sustainability, or discover cutting-edge vehicle technology, the CV Show 2025 is the place to be.”
