Commercial Vehicle Show 2025: A New Era Under Nineteen Group
The UK's leading road transport event, the Commercial Vehicle Show, is set to return to the NEC Birmingham from 29 April to 1 May 2025, marking a new chapter under the ownership of Nineteen Group. With a fresh vision, expanded content, and a renewed focus on industry engagement, the event is expected to attract 15,000 visitorsfrom across the haulage, logistics, and fleet sectors. New event director Mike Costain has outlined an ambitious roadmap for the show, blending innovation, networking, and knowledge-sharing to ensure its continued success.
With backing from the Road Haulage Association (RHA)and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the show promises to reflect the industry's rapidly evolving landscape.
A New Direction for the UK's Leading CV Event
For 25 years, the Commercial Vehicle Show has been the go-to platform for the latest vehicle innovations, cutting-edge technology, and key industry discussions. Under Nineteen Group, the event aims to build on this legacy while introducing new interactive features and enhanced networking opportunities. Mike Costain, the event director, expressed his enthusiasm for taking the show forward:
"There are 25 years of history for the show, and it feels like we've got a real opportunity to drive this event forward and provide an event for the sector that we're all proud of."
Nineteen Group's experience in large-scale exhibitions across multiple industries is set to bring a fresh perspective to the event.
Costain highlighted the importance of data-driven decision-making in shaping the show's future:
"One of the key things in order to grow events generally is that you need to understand your data and your audience. The marketing team has done a huge amount of work there... Will you see that when visitors come through the door on the 29th of April?
Yes, you will."
Networking will play a bigger role than ever, moving beyond a simple exhibitor-visitor model. Costain stressed that the show will encourage more interaction between attendees, exhibitors, and industry leaders through social activities and structured networking events.
Key Themes and New Features for 2025
Innovation and Decarbonisation at the Forefront With the commercial vehicle industry undergoing significant change, this year's show will place a strong emphasis on decarbonisation, electrification, and sustainability.
The SMMT's Will Reeves highlighted how the show will showcase the latest technologies and industry developments:
"The industry is in a massive change, like the amount of innovation that is coming through. And the commercial vehicle industry is really exciting. The show is going to be a real showcase for what the latest innovation is in the industry."
One of the key sessions will feature Innovate UK, presenting on the Zero Emission Heavy Duty Vehicle and Infrastructure Demonstration (Z-HID) Programme.
Additionally, two dedicated decarbonisation sessions will help fleet operators understand the transition to zero-emission vehicles.
"There are so many operators out there that don't know what to do. And we could run this session 100 times and there would still be lots of operators that don't know what to do," Reeves explained.
The Electrification of Commercial Fleets will be another major topic, with the RHA's policy lead, Chris Ashley, sharing insights from a Net Zero survey, while Renault Trucks' Managing Director will provide a manufacturer's perspective.
Regulatory Challenges and Future-Proofing the Industry
With the regulatory landscape becoming increasingly complex, industry professionals will gain valuable insights into compliance and operational efficiency. The RHA's Stephen Hards outlined a session focused on commercial vehicle maintenance and evolving industry standards:
"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."
Other key sessions will address:
- Freight Crime and Cybersecurity - tackling rising risks such as cargo theft, cyber-attacks, and security breaches.
- Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) - how businesses can align with sustainability and ethical standards.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Logistics - exploring how AI can optimise fleet management, maintenance, and customer service.
What to Expect from the Exhibition Floor
The 2025 show will feature a diverse mix of heavy and light commercial vehicles, ensuring a balanced representation of the haulage, distribution, and last-mile sectors.
"We are ahead of our projections from an exhibitor perspective. There have been some challenges on making sure that this is as much about heavy as it is about light, but I think you'll see the event starting to turn around," Costain explained. In addition to vehicle showcases, exhibitors will unveil new technology, aftermarket solutions, and fleet management innovations.
The SMMT's launch schedule will include multiple new product unveilings, making the show an essential visit for fleet decision-makers. "People that attend the show... it's fleet directors, it's fleet buyers, it's decision-makers. So everything that you've got to talk about, they will want to buy," Reeves noted.
A Long-Term Vision for Growth
Beyond 2025, Nineteen Group has ambitious plans for the Commercial Vehicle Show's continued expansion.
Costain outlined a three-to-five-year growth strategy, emphasising stability and investment:
"We've got a plan from an investment point of view, from a growth point of view, that is based on our experience of running events... There are lots of opportunities for us to grow and develop this into an event that the sector should be proud of."
Future editions of the show will focus on:
- Expanding exhibitor numbers and international reach.
- Enhancing visitor experience through digital integration and engagement.
- Introducing more interactive elements and specialist zones.
A Show to Remember - And a Celebration Too!
Beyond business, the 2025 edition will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Commercial Vehicle Show. Expect a mix of historical exhibits, networking receptions, and industry celebrations.
"We should celebrate 25 years of this event and the changes that have gone on in this industry.
The importance to UK PLC - politically, economically, and socially - shouldn't be underestimated," Costain said.
To kick off the celebrations, the SMMT will host a drinks reception on Day One, followed by a birthday party on Day Two.
"The important thing is the show has to be fun. So I'd like to invite you all to the SMMT drinks reception... before we have the birthday party on the second day," Reeves concluded.
Why You Should Attend the CV Show 2025
The Commercial Vehicle Show 2025 is shaping up to be bigger, better, and more dynamic than ever. Whether you're a fleet manager, operator, supplier, or manufacturer, the show will provide valuable insights, hands-on experiences, and unparalleled networking opportunities.
With decarbonisation, AI, security, and regulatory updates at the forefront, this year's event is set to be an unmissable occasion for the UK's haulage and logistics industry.
? Save the date: 29 April - 1 May 2025
? NEC Birmingham
For more details and to register, visit www.cvshow.com