The Commercial Vehicle Show (CV Show) returns from 29 April to 1 May at the Birmingham NEC. We take a look at some of the highlights of the event
(Image credit: Aquarius IT)

On day one, Will Reeves, commercial vehicle manager for Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), says Innovate UK will give a presentation on the four schemes within the ZEHID (zero emission HGV and infrastructure demonstration) programme.

"I will host a session on heavy vehicle workshop standards because the Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE) will be launching the Maintenance Provision Rating Scheme (MPRS) at the show,” he adds. "Workshop standards are really important because vehicles are evolving, and workshops need to be ready for zero-emission trucks and light commercial vehicles. We will be looking at technician training and what future workshops will look like.”

For more on MPRS, see www.tinyurl.com/4fvm8unu.

On day two, Steven Hards, head of operations at the Road Haulage Association (RHA), reveals that the show will explore several key areas, including the rapidly evolving industry and the current challenges and opportunities within the logistics landscape.

"Next up, we will dive into the increasingly complex regulatory environment that logistics companies must navigate, with a specific focus on improving industry standards and professional practices in commercial vehicle maintenance,” he says.

“We will hear from experts who will break down these regulations and technical requirements, offering practical guidance on compliance and what you need to keep your operations running smoothly."

EXHIBITORS

There are more than 250 exhibitors at this year’s CV Show. Among them is the Society of Operations Engineers (SOE), who will use the event as a platform for major industry initiatives and professional development support, and launch the Maintenance Provision Rating Scheme (MPRS) on day two at 11.10am on the main stage. The SOE’s career development support will include details of its new mentoring programme and it will outline the IRTE career pathway guide in operations engineering.

VANS

Farizon, the commercial vehicle division of Geely, is to display its SV electric van, which features drive-by-wire intelligent architecture, a b-pillarless design, cell-to-pack battery packaging and ADAS safety systems. Available in five sizes, from L1 H1 to L3 H3 configurations, every model benefits from an extra-low loading height of 550mm. The advanced electrical architecture also allows for enhanced connectivity and intelligent driving functionality.

Flexis Mobility is to showcase its Step-In van, which features front sliding doors and a rear shutter door for loading optimisation. The van features easy access between the cockpit and cargo areas with 1.9-metre height clearance allowing drivers to comfortably walk upright throughout the vehicle. Based on an EV-native skateboard platform, with SDV electronic architecture developed by partnering organisation Ampere of Renault Groupe, Flexis has developed this van alongside The Panel Van and The Cargo Van.

Exeros Technologies is to exhibit a demonstration van that combats fatigue by utilising a vibrating haptic seat. The in-cab cameras utilise artificial intelligence (AI) technology to track eye movements from the driver. The cameras will send an alert to the vibrating seat if they detect too much eye movement, yawning or a ‘micro sleep’, a scenario in which the driver closes their eyes for one to three seconds. Additionally, Exeros will present its VideMatics Advanced Contextual Driver Scoring solution that factors in road conditions such as heavy traffic and environmental influences.

Isuzu will give its first public display of the new Isuzu D-Max STEEL Edition, a limited-edition model designed for those who demand rugged durability, premium styling and outstanding capability. Built on the D-Max platform, it combines toughness with refinement, offering a 3.5-tonne towing capacity, Rough Terrain Mode, and advanced driver assistance systems. There will also be a special announcement on the Isuzu stand (5D60) on day one at 11.25am.

FLEET MANAGEMENT

Fischer Panda UK is to present its enhanced eco-friendly product portfolio, which includes the EFOY fuel cell zero-emission power solution and all-in-one Clayton lithium power unit. The EFOY fuel cell zero-emission power solution can be integrated into wider system solutions to distribute power throughout the vehicle. Chris Fower, sales and marketing director, said: ”Our system solutions can significantly impact fleets’ operational costs, making them the most cost-effective option by offsetting the initial investment.”

Chevin Fleet Solutions is to highlight its FleetWave Store – a hub for Fleetwave users to find prebuilt content, such as reports, KPIs and SmartForms for mobile app users that can be installed without having to create from new. The platform is designed to simplify the way fleet management content is shared, accessed and updated. The FleetWave Store is expected to enhance efficiency and collaboration for FleetWave users while addressing key challenges faced across multiple sectors. The pre-built content allows users to follow the industry’s best practice and get inspiration for improvements to their fleet operations.

Tranzaura is to exhibit AI-powered fleet intelligence software that is expected to reduce costs for transport and fleet companies and improve their operational efficiency by up to 30%. FleetNow delivers actionable intelligence in real time, identifying where fleet managers can make data-driven decisions by tracking major expenses like fuel, vehicle maintenance, compliance and labour. According to Tranzaura, the software maximises efficiency, allowing transport and fleet companies to get more done, faster and with fewer resources, resulting in reduced costs and increased profitability.

Modul-System is to present Modul-Connect, a vehicle management system that is said to help fleet managers optimise performance, enhance safety and streamline operations. The solution has a range of features, including a driving journal, battery monitoring, mobile app and a web portal. The driving journal automatically records trips as business or private, based on user settings, which can be managed via the Modul-Connect app. Battery monitoring helps prevent downtime by tracking power levels and availability, while the web portal provides fleet managers with real-time access to vehicle data, live tracking and essential reports.

Motormax is to display its latest innovations, including a cloud-based platform designed to monitor and track driver behaviour, helping fleet operators improve safety, efficiency and compliance. With real-time data analytics, MaxConnex enables fleet managers to gain insights into driver performance, identify risky behaviours and implement proactive safety measures. The system integrates with existing fleet operations, offering a user-friendly interface and AI-powered reporting to enhance decision-making.

Aquarius IT is to exhibit its newly updated Aquarius App, which makes it easy for users to communicate, interact and record data on a single device and ensure users have access to company information. The Aquarius App supports daily driver defect reporting, incident reporting, document management, eSign (infringement reporting) and two solutions that have launched over the last few months – clandestine check and a driver welfare check.

Van Guard Accessories is to unveil new additions to its product range while also showcasing the latest van racking systems, roof racks, load securing equipment and security products. Emlyn Harris, managing director at Van Guard Accessories, says the CV Show provides the company with the “perfect opportunity” to engage with customers, and to ensure it is aligned with the latest industry trends. He adds: ”This year, we’re especially excited to unveil new innovations that we believe will enhance the safety, security and efficiency of commercial fleets.”

System Edström will formally unveil its new service, called FleetLane. The new service, designed to accelerate fleet conversions by carrying out racking and storage installations at the port of entry, is set to transform how businesses get their vehicles on the road. By reducing delivery miles and minimising vehicle handling, FleetLane promises to offer a faster, greener and safer solution for fleet operators. The company will also exhibit its redesigned internal ladder holder with a spring-loaded mechanism, to make getting the ladder in and out of the van easier.

PARTS & FITTINGS

Albert Jagger will exhibit its latest range of commercial vehicle parts and fittings. Products will feature Safe Assist, an innovative trailer ramp system, and Kommuter, a mobile toolbox designed for tradespeople on the move. Its product portfolio includes mudguards, toolboxes, paddle locks, adhesives and sealants, locks and latches, hinges, and telescopic drawer slides.

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