Vanaways Attends Commercial Vehicle Show 2026 at NEC Birmingham

Vanaways attended the Commercial Vehicle Show 2026 at the NEC Birmingham this week, joining leading figures from across the road freight, transport, and logistics sectors.

Widely regarded as the UK’s flagship event for commercial vehicles, the show brought together manufacturers, converters, fleet operators, and technology providers. The event offered a comprehensive view of how the industry is evolving and the direction it is expected to take in the coming years.

A strong emphasis was placed on innovation and sustainability throughout this year’s exhibition. Electric and alternative fuel vehicles, advanced fleet management solutions, and intelligent vehicle design were among the key themes, while a series of speaker sessions provided insight into the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of commercial transport.

One of the highlights for the Vanaways team was the opportunity to see the all-new MAXUS eTERRON 9 up close. The vehicle reflects the rapid progress being made in electric commercial vehicle capability and design, offering a glimpse into the future of the sector.

Electric Pickups Gaining Ground: KGM Musso EV

We also caught up with Charlie Jones, National Corporate Sales Manager at KGM UK, to discuss the all-new KGM Musso EV and what it could mean for UK businesses.

Electric pickups are beginning to make real commercial sense. While much of the EV conversation continues to focus on future van platforms and emerging technologies, electric pickups are already proving their value in practical fleet applications today.

The KGM Musso EV stands out as one of the most affordable electric pickups currently available, offering low Benefit-in-Kind rates without compromising on capability. Drivers can expect up to 240 miles of range, increasing to 290 miles in urban driving conditions, alongside towing capacity of more than two tonnes.

Inside, the vehicle is well equipped with features including wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and heated and ventilated seats, making it a practical and comfortable option for everyday commercial use.

Backed by a 10-year / 1 million kilometre battery warranty, the Musso EV presents a compelling proposition for businesses focused on long-term fleet value and reliability.

At Vanaways, we are continuing to see a shift in the industry. Electric vehicles are no longer simply about meeting sustainability targets, they are increasingly becoming a practical solution for more demanding operational roles.

If pickups are part of your fleet strategy, the KGM Musso EV is certainly one to watch.

Next Generation Vans: Renault Trafic E-Tech (2027)

Vanaways also spoke with Rebecca Hester, Product and Launch Manager LCV and Pro+ at Renault Group, to get an early look at the upcoming Trafic E-Tech, due to arrive in 2027.

The model raises an important question: what does the next generation of electric vans really mean for businesses?

For Vanaways customers, the new Trafic E-Tech represents a significant step forward. With up to 279 miles of range, it is designed to comfortably handle full working days, while ultra-fast charging can get drivers back on the road in around 20 minutes.

The vehicle will also be available in multiple body styles, making it suitable for a wide range of trades and commercial applications. As a software-defined vehicle, it has the ability to evolve over time, with features such as navigation capable of being added after purchase.

Inside, the Trafic E-Tech has been designed to function as a more modern and comfortable workspace, featuring voice control and upgraded in-cab technology. For fleets, improved connectivity and integrated systems provide greater visibility, efficiency, and operational control.

At Vanaways, we focus on how vehicles perform in real working environments, not just on paper. From what we have seen so far, the Trafic E-Tech feels like a meaningful step forward for electric vans and the wider commercial vehicle sector.

If your business is considering the move to electric, now is a good time to start planning.

Looking Ahead

For Vanaways, attendance at the show is not only about staying informed on industry developments, but also about strengthening partnerships, exploring new ideas, and ensuring its van conversion solutions continue to meet the evolving needs of customers. The event also provided valuable opportunities to connect with peers and engage in meaningful industry discussions.

The team described the visit as a productive and insightful experience and we look forward to returning to the show next year.