The Commercial Vehicles Show, or CVS as it is acronymically known, is the UK’s largest, most revered and prestigious transport event. It gives the biggest motoring companies a platform to show to the world how they will change the way we think about commercial transport, to present the motoring achievements of tomorrow and unveil their latest, greatest vehicles that anyone who’s anyone will be driving in weeks, months or years’ time. This year, it looks set to deliver this same undulating prestige but on a truly international basis. Here’s how CVS2013 will be, for many, the biggest calendar date of the year, and what exactly we know we’ll be seeing at the show!
The OICA
The global body that governs the automotive industry has given recognition to the UK show putting it alongside such similar such international events as those that take place in Hanover and Amsterdam. It’s an enormously significant accolade for CVS, putting it on the map as the eighth to receive such recognition from the OICA.
Indeed, the OICA (Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles) accredits only a handful of car and vehicle exhibitions all over the world; its ranks are extremely difficult to penetrate and as such, being a part of the event elite is something hugely significant for the show and the UK as well. The news came on the last day of 2012’s show and as such, preparation has been exponentially building in intensity since. With the show mere months away and it being the first one that will carry with it the newly attained international status, the simmering sound of anticipation has grown to an inexorable din and we’re finally hearing about the kind of exhibits and reveals we’ll be getting to see over the course of the 3 April days!
The Show Floor
With all commercial sectors covered, from distribution to logistics, truck, van, trailer, forklift truck, even tyre and telematics manufacturers will have a presence at the show. This year even promises to cover workshop equipment, parts and components as well as maintenance management systems in The Workshop Zone. In every manner the show floor is primed to deliver everything you could want to know about the newest commercial vehicles.
So then, what exactly will we be seeing? Whilst there’s still plenty of speculation, and many manufacturers are yet to announce a definitely line up, we have heard a few rumours fluttering about the place!
Citroen
Citroen, for example, will be showing off its latest derivative LCV, The Berlingo Electrique, complete with a lithium-ion battery pack and electric motor tucked beneath its metallic extremities. As a car van, it’ll need to do the miles, and reportedly ‘the miles’ is 106 whilst recharge time currently sites at 8.5 hours with a domestic socket. They’re impressive figures, but we’ll have to wait till the show itself to see if we’re really looking at the future of driving – it’d certainly save businesses money on petrol, but perhaps not so much on late fees.
Iveco
Similarly, van and truck giants Iveco have announced they’re making a welcome return to the show after a long, three year absence. Perhaps the international status has tempted the Italian manufacturer back to the UK, or perhaps they’ve got something really special to show us. With the new Stralis no doubt making an appearance, will we also see the new generation of the iconic Daily? Rumours seem to outline the reveal of a Stop Start system live at the show!
MINI
Stylish businesses who require a commercial van may also be in luck as the MINI Clubvan looks set to make its debut at CVS. With practicality, style AND substance all at the top of the manufacturers’ priority list, MINI are really looking to up their game with this latest entry.
Undoubtedly, there’s still more to come, and if you’re heading to the show at Birmingham NEC, 9-11 of April, make sure you keep your eyes glued to the internet for the latest news and updates from the event!
This article was written by Rob Vicars for Anchor Vans. For a used commercial van that gets you from A to B with affordability, reliability and, of course, quality all aspects of the entire range, look no further than Anchor Vans!