Experts award the Stars of the Year

The new IAA TRANSPORTATION started on Monday with the international press day. The evening event in front of more than 400 spectators in Hall 18 live from the Hannover exhibition grounds was especially atmospheric. As part of the "IAA Stars of the Year", four renowned industry awards were presented there for particularly innovative vehicle developments from the current year - for the first time together under one roof. This year's awards once again reflect significant trends that are likely to shape the transportation and logistics market in the coming years. 

The first celebrated award winner of the evening was the all-electric Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo, which received the Van of The Year award. Jarlath Sweeney, chairman of the 24-member jury of international trade journalists, praised Volkswagen for "developing this unique vehicle that is perfectly suited for the environmentally conscious urban environment." With its futuristic and sophisticated design, the new ID. Buzz makes a statement, but also evokes memories of the original T1 van from 70 years ago due to some of its exterior features, such as the V-shaped hood and distinctive VW badge. 

Carsten Intra, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, expressed confidence in the market opportunities for the ID. Buzz. "The first order volumes from our markets show us that our new ID. Buzz Cargo is the right model at the right time for commercial customers." 

The prize for the "International Bus of The Year," awarded by a jury of 23 trade journalists headed by Tom Terjesen, went to the MAN Lion's City E electric bus this year. As a passenger, you are drawn to get on the bus, said the visibly enthusiastic jury head Terjesen, who also had the appropriate pun ready: "This bus has an appetite for passengers - like a big lion." In addition, Terjesen particularly emphasized the excellent conditions for the bus drivers, who would benefit in their work from the good visibility and special technical safety precautions. "The MAN Lion's City E offers one of the best jobs on the market. In this bus, you are the big boss!" 

Meanwhile, the "International Truck of The Year" jury led by Gianenrico Griffini had no less than two award winners to choose from. The 25-member panel of experts chose the Mercedes-Benz eActros LongHaul as the winner of the "Truck Innovation Award," which according to the manufacturer will be in series production from 2024. The all-electric truck opens up a new chapter in the direction of e-mobility, Griffini said, explaining the jury's choice. "It proves that the shift towards CO2-neutral long-haul transport is an achievable goal, supported by high-tech solutions and continuous R&D investment." 

Finally, the award for "International Truck of The Year" went to the DAF XD. Harald Seidel, President of DAF Trucks, was delighted to receive the award from the experts for the second year in a row and spoke of a "wonderful recognition for our premium products and our great DAF employees." Last year, the jury had awarded the DAF models XF, XG and XG+. Nevertheless, the experts are full of praise for this year's winner as well, emphasizing: "The new generation DAF XD sets new standards in safety, efficiency and driver comfort in its class." 

The fact that all four prizes awarded on Monday went to different manufacturers underlines the existing innovative strength of the entire industry. But one highlight still awaits: All those who are longing for more prizes should therefore mark next Thursday in their calendars. That's when the fifth and final awards ceremony will take place at this year's IAA TRANSPORTATION. For the first time, the Cargobike of the Year will be awarded at the most important trade show for transport and logistics topics.