The Commercial Vehicle Show is an unmissable event that brings together fleet operators, OEMs, manufacturers, service providers and solution specialists, all in one highly targeted environment.
Taking place at the Birmingham NEC between April 21-23, this year’s show will see more than 300 exhibitors in attendance, about 10,000 products on display as well as 150 speakers at the various seminars covering the most relevant industry topics.
The UK’s largest commercial vehicle event 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.
Designed to support an evolving sector, it is not just a trade exhibition but a learning hub built to inform, connect and prepare the industry for the road ahead.
We take a look at some of the highlights to look forward to.
The Main Stage (Hall 5)
Hosted by SMMT and RHA, this stage will place the spotlight on decarbonisation, the government’s ZEV mandate, emerging technologies, and key industry challenges. Expert speakers will offer actionable insights to drive innovation and sustainability. Day three will focus on diversity, workforce development, talent retention, and inclusion – empowering businesses to build a motivated, future-ready team.
Other topics discussed will be AI, cybersecurity, skills, vehicle maintenance, and tool theft, and the main stage will also see the launch of the SMMT’s latest Commercial Vehicle Report.
There will be contributions from companies, as well as representatives from the Department for Transport (DfT) and BVRLA.
The Technical Stage
The Technical Stage 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, it will deliver practical ideas and actionable solutions for implementation in organisations.
Decarbonisation Theatre at The EV Café
Located at the EV Café Village, the Decarbonisation Theatre will host a free-to-attend conference packed with expert insights on EV adoption, fleet transition, charging infrastructure, battery technology, and the Zero Emission Van Plan. This is designed to give businesses the knowledge and confidence to accelerate their electric journey.
Future Fleet Arena
The Future Fleet Arena will showcase the technologies shaping tomorrow’s transport. From autonomous systems and connected vehicles to AI-driven fleet management, next-generation fuels, and smart infrastructure, it will offer a first look at the innovations set to transform fleet operations.
Driver Safety Theatre
Delivered in partnership with National Highways, the Driver Safety Theatre will have free sessions focused on road safety and driver wellbeing. Topics will include fatigue management, mental health, incident prevention, and compliance, providing both operators and drivers with practical strategies to stay safe and perform at their best.
Bus & Coach Expo
New for 2026 is The Bus & Coach Expo – the UK’s dedicated event for the bus and coach industry. Co-located with the Commercial Vehicle Show, it will bring together operators, manufacturers, and suppliers from across the sector. With a strong line-up of exhibitors and thousands of industry professionals, it will also showcase the latest innovations in:
- Buses, coaches, minibuses, and accessible vehicles
- Telematics, route planning, and scheduling software
- EV charging, hydrogen refuelling, and depot infrastructure
- Workshop, garage, and fleet maintenance equipment
- Safety systems, accessibility technology, and regulatory compliance
Nick Davison, Event Director, said: “We’re thrilled to launch Bus & Coach Expo in 2026. This is not just another industry event, it’s a strategic new platform built for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
“With its co-location alongside the Commercial Vehicle Show, we’re delivering two powerhouse exhibitions in one, offering attendees more value, more connection, and more reasons to attend.”
Bus & Coach Leaders Forum
Alongside the new Expo, The Bus & Coach Leaders Forum will bring together senior figures from across the passenger transport sector to discuss policy, innovation, fleet decarbonisation, and funding. This will offer valuable insights for those involved in the future of bus and coach services.
Destination Net Zero
In this section of the show, located in Hall 4, visitors will be able to explore the newest advancements in electric, hydrogen, and alternative fuel-powered commercial vehicles. Operators looking for battery-electric HGVs, hydrogen fuel cell trucks, or ultra-efficient hybrid powertrains will find the latest technology ready to hit the road.
Ride & Drive Area
Visitors will be able to test the latest vehicles in the safe and controlled environment of the Ride & Drive Area. This interactive feature is designed to showcase cutting-edge innovations in HGVs, LCVs, and alternative fuel vehicles, giving attendees the chance to experience the performance, comfort, and technology of these vehicles first-hand.
Whether comparing electric drivetrains, trialling advanced safety systems, or evaluating overall handling, attendees can gain valuable insights to support real-world purchasing and fleet decisions.
Collaboration Zone
New for 2026, and positioned in the heart of Hall 4, the Collaboration Zone will bring together key government departments and leading industry associations as exhibitors, offering expert guidance and strategic support to attendees.
There will be a central informal seating area for visitors and exhibitors to engage in meaningful conversations, spark new collaborations, and exchange knowledge on the challenges and opportunities shaping the road transport sector.
Workshop Zone
This year sees the return of a dedicated Workshop Zone at the show, for those looking to explore cutting-edge technologies or discover new suppliers.
This revitalised area will showcase the latest in garage and workshop equipment, tools, diagnostics, parts, and servicing solutions.
Home to leading suppliers and innovators, the zone will appeal to fleet engineers, maintenance professionals and decision-makers seeking to enhance workshop performance, safety, and efficiency. With garage workshop equipment and supplies among the top product interests for visitors, it is set to be a popular spot.
Training Zone
The Training Zone will appeal to people looking to upskill, enhance their qualifications, and stay compliant in the ever-evolving world of commercial driving.
Designed for HGV drivers, fleet managers, transport operators, as well as newcomers to the industry, this dedicated area will provide expert-led sessions and tailored resources to help professionals advance their careers and improve operational performance.
From the latest driver CPC updates and compliance insights to hands-on workshops in safety, sustainability, and efficiency, the Training Zone will bring practical knowledge straight to the show floor. It is a unique chance to learn directly from leading trainers and industry bodies, all under one roof.
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