Daimler Truck highlights broad technology portfolio at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026

At IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026, Daimler Truck presented innovations spanning battery-electric and hydrogen-based drives, diesel technology, safety, digitalization, and autonomous driving. Key premieres included the Mercedes-Benz eActros Lowliner, the hydrogen-powered NextGenH2 Truck, and the new conventional Powerliner powertrain. These were joined by new safety assistance systems, such as Active Cross Traffic Assist, Active Sideguard Assist 3, and Active Drive Assist 3 for the Actros, which supports Level 2 partially automated driving. In addition, Daimler Truck presented an expanded digital Fleetboard offering for fleet management, operational analysis, compliance, charging management, and proactive diagnostics.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks also unveiled the new "130 Years Trucks Edition" at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026. Limited to 400 vehicles, this special model pays homage to Gottlieb Daimler’s invention of the truck in 1896 and is being offered for the first time with both diesel and battery-electric drives. Further highlights included the ongoing development of autonomous trucks with Torc and an expanded service ecosystem presented by Daimler Truck Financial Services (DTFS).

Daimler Truck also showcased "Global Design Inspiration"—a series of visionary concepts from its international design centers. These concepts explore potential developments in transport and mobility, ranging from modular commercial vehicles to autonomous logistics and mobility solutions. They are explicitly not intended as previews of future production models.

Furthermore, Daimler Buses announced plans to modernize Mercedes-Benz and Setra touring coaches starting in 2027. New engines and transmissions, a new electronics architecture, and additional driver assistance and digital features are designed to improve efficiency, safety, and vehicle uptime.

Kia expands electric PBV lineup with PV7 for greater capacity and flexibility

Kia introduced the PV7 at IAA TRANSPORTATION. As the second model in the brand’s “Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV)” strategy, Kia is further expanding its lineup in the electric light commercial vehicle (eLCV) segment. Available in cargo and passenger variants, the PV7 combines electric performance with a flexible interior and connected technologies to support a wide spectrum of business and mobility applications. Based on Kia’s E-GMP.S (Electric Global Modular Platform for Service)—developed specifically for PBVs—it features a completely flat floor to maximize space and flexibility. It also offers practical, day-to-day operational solutions designed to help customers boost productivity and achieve better business outcomes. The PV7 Passenger and PV7 Cargo are scheduled to launch in Europe and Korea in the second half of 2027, with other markets, model variants, and customized conversions to follow.

Stellantis Pro One debuts three world premieres and new fleet ecosystem

At IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026, Stellantis Pro One revealed three world premieres among a total of 13 commercial vehicles from the Citroën, FIAT Professional, Opel, and Peugeot brands. Highlights included the new Smart Compact Van, an upgraded version of the electric Fiat TRIS, and the BOW. autonomous electric concept vehicle for urban logistics. The Smart Compact Van will be offered across brands as the Citroën Berlingo Van First, Fiat Doblò EasyPro, Opel Combo Start, and Peugeot Partner Active. The all-electric version achieves a range of up to 270 kilometers (approx. 168 miles), alongside combustion-engine options and a mild hybrid coming in 2027. The electric three-wheeled transport vehicle Fiat TRIS features doors for the first time and offers a range of up to 90 kilometers (approx. 56 miles) from its 6.9 kWh battery. With the BOW. (Box-on-Wheels), developed jointly with UQI Robotics, Stellantis Pro One also presented an autonomous, fully electric logistics concept designed for parcel delivery, factories, hospitals, and airports. The display was rounded out by Pro One NEXT, which enables real-time monitoring and proactive fleet management for around 800,000 connected vehicles, alongside various CustomFit conversions for commercial applications.

Ford Pro unveils new Transit City and Ranger Super Duty heavy-duty pickup

Ford Pro leveraged IAA TRANSPORTATION to showcase its fully electrified commercial vehicle lineup. From a plug-in hybrid pickup to multiple battery-electric vans and the new Transit City, the manufacturer announced at least one electrified variant for all six product lines. The new Ranger Super Duty heavy-duty pickup, along with digital fleet and service offerings aimed at maximizing vehicle uptime, rounded out the lineup presented in Hanover. Among the highlights was the all-electric Transit City, which Ford Pro presented to the public for the first time at IAA TRANSPORTATION. Beyond electrification, Ford Pro is expanding its portfolio with the Ranger Super Duty. This heavy-duty pickup is tailored specifically for high-towing and heavy-payload applications, such as forestry, mining, or emergency services. Beside the vehicles themselves, Ford Pro demonstrated digital uptime solutions and service offerings—including Dealer Uptime Services, Ford Uptime Services, and Ford Uptime Insights—designed to make maintenance more predictable and minimize unplanned downtime.

Renault turns the page with new chapter at IAA TRANSPORTATION

At IAA TRANSPORTATION, Renault announced the launch of five new models by 2028—one of which is the new Trafic E-Tech electric, unveiled in Hanover. The new Trafic E-Tech electric is the pioneer of a new vehicle generation engineered to be technologically advanced, efficient, and comfortable. Designed as a customizable and scalable “Software-Defined Van,” it aims to lower total cost of ownership, boost electrical efficiency, and improve working conditions. Through its three-tier conversion ecosystem—comprising Converted by Renault, Qstomize, and a network of 300 certified bodybuilders—the company is positioned to tailor every light commercial vehicle precisely to individual customer needs.

Additionally, the new “Renault Uptimize” program is set to launch in 2027. Uptimize harnesses data from connected vehicles to provide commercial customers with personalized support, cutting vehicle downtime by half.

Schmitz Cargobull reveals new INGENIOS chassis and more efficient transport refrigeration

Schmitz Cargobull unveiled two world premieres at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026. The new INGENIOS chassis is designed to deliver higher payload capacity and greater cargo volume while remaining compatible with a wide variety of tractor units.

For temperature-controlled transport, the company introduced the new S.CU dc100 transport refrigeration unit. Its VarioFlow technology independently controls cooling generation as well as heating/cooling transfer, adapting output to current demand. This reduces fuel consumption by up to eight percent while boosting cooling performance by up to eleven percent.

Schmitz Cargobull also showcased innovations for dry freight, intermodal, and general cargo transport, construction and agricultural logistics, and urban delivery. Digital applications and services round out the portfolio across the entire trailer lifecycle—from procurement and financing to operations and recycling.

MAHLE celebrates world premiere of Range Extender and MCT electric motor

MAHLE hosted the world premiere of its new Range Extender system for battery-electric trucks. The technology group has initiated initial pilot projects with commercial vehicle manufacturers to build prototypes and hit the road for real-world testing in the near future. The Range Extender can accelerate the adoption of battery-electric commercial vehicles by providing additional range and flexibility, enabling transport companies to combine profitability with sustainability.

As another world premiere in Hanover, MAHLE presented a new magnet-free electric motor (MCT) for heavy commercial vehicles. Operating without rare earth elements, it reduces drive weight and enhances overall EV efficiency through its high performance capability.

MAN electrifies the IAA with new eTruck generation

Under the banner “Driving. People. Partner.”, MAN Truck & Bus presented its highly efficient truck and van portfolio ranging from 3.5 to 250 tons in Hanover. The lineup is complemented by a comprehensive ecosystem covering electric mobility, charging, and energy supply. A new addition this year is the option for test drives starting directly at the MAN exhibition booth in Hall 11.

The headline highlight at the booth was the new MAN eTGX, which features improved aerodynamics, enhanced energy recovery, and a new battery generation providing ten percent more usable energy, boosting its range as a 4x2 tractor unit up to 660 kilometers (approx. 410 miles).  With the new 6x2 tractor unit variant featuring a seventh battery, a range of up to 720 kilometres is even possible. 

With the MAN eTGL, eTGM, eTGS, and eTGX series, MAN will soon offer a seamless electric truck portfolio from 12 to 50 tons, displayed together in its entirety for the first time at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026. It covers virtually the entire operational spectrum—from urban distribution and municipal services to construction site transport and long-haul freight.

As a special vehicle highlight featuring a conventional drive, MAN also showcased a new 60-ton truck based on the TGS 8x4. With its exceptional durability and payload capacity, it is built for global mining operations.

Across all truck series at the IAA, MAN introduced numerous updates to driver assistance and safety systems that further bolster efficiency, safety, and comfort—including the predictive cruise control system EfficientCruise, which integrates traffic infrastructure even more intelligently.

Taking a holistic approach to the profitability of electric mobility, MAN presented its full e-mobility ecosystem via MAN Transport Solutions: from charging infrastructure, smart charging, and energy management to emerging applications like bidirectional charging. The goal is to optimize charge times, reduce energy costs, and operate electric fleets cost-effectively.

In addition, MAN Charge&Go is expanding its Europe-wide, e-truck-verified charging network by 50 locations across countries such as the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Portugal.

By debuting two near-production innovation vehicles, MAN demonstrated potential next steps in its van electrification strategy. Based on the MAN TGE, these vehicles were developed alongside Swiss development partner Flux for specialized applications requiring higher gross vehicle weight ratings, all-wheel drive, and electric power take-offs (ePTO). Furthermore, the MAN TGE focused heavily on efficiency, productivity, and driver comfort at this year’s show. Ten years after its world premiere in Hanover, MAN presented new customization options from MAN Individual along with new MAN TGE Connect Services.

Renault Trucks brings two premieres and an all-electric portfolio

Renault Trucks showcased its 2027 model year at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026, featuring new electric vehicles and a more efficient diesel drive. For long-haul operations, the new E-Tech T 780 leads the electric portfolio with a range of up to 660 kilometers (approx. 410 miles). A new e-axle and high-energy-density NCA batteries allow for a payload capacity of up to 27.4 tons.

In light commercial vehicles, the new E-Tech Trafic debuts with a WLTP range of up to 470 kilometers (approx. 292 miles). Its 800-volt architecture enables charging from 15 to 80 percent in roughly 20 minutes. The lineup is completed by the compact E-Tech D 12T and D 14T for urban distribution, featuring 176 kWh LFP batteries, a range of up to 220 kilometers (approx. 136 miles), and a maximum payload of 6.7 tons.

Concurrently, Renault Trucks is introducing the new DE13 R diesel engine for the T, T High, C, and K ranges for the 2027 model year. Paired with the new Optidriver transmission, it is designed to lower fuel consumption by an average of four percent compared to the previous generation. Delivering up to 540 PS and 2,800 Nm of torque, the engine is certified for renewable fuels such as HVO and B100.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles introduces Connect Pro digital B2B ecosystem

At IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles reinforced its focus on commercial clients by presenting Connect Pro, a new digital ecosystem for fleet management. Guided by the core principle “Your Uptime Matters,” the system is engineered to boost vehicle availability, productivity, and operational efficiency.

Connect Pro consolidates intelligent monitoring, predictive maintenance, and connected services into a single central interface. By detecting potential issues early, it aims to reduce unscheduled downtime and keep vehicles on the road as long as possible.

With this new solution, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles aims to transition further from a pure vehicle manufacturer into a dedicated B2B partner for commercial clients. Digital services will help streamline fleet operations, improve uptime, and enhance long-term operational efficiency.

Mercedes-Benz Vans offers sneak peek at next-generation Sprinter and expands digital ecosystem

At IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026, Mercedes-Benz Vans revealed its new modular van architecture and offered an initial look at the next-generation Sprinter and a new mid-size van through the “THE BOuLDER” sculpture. Future commercial vans will be offered in both fully electric and internal combustion engine variants, continuing to cover diverse lengths, wheelbases, and weight classes.

The first production model built on the new architecture is the electric VLE passenger van. It boasts a range of over 700 kilometers (approx. 435 miles), 800-volt technology, and seating for five to eight passengers. Moving forward, MB.OS will serve as the digital backbone for this van generation, enabling over-the-air updates, AI capabilities, and the integration of third-party applications for navigation and fleet management.

At the same time, Mercedes-Benz Vans is expanding its commercial customer offerings with the Mercedes-Benz PRO business ecosystem. It brings together vehicle configuration and conversions, digital services, charging and e-mobility solutions, financing, insurance, and service packages. Through this approach, Mercedes-Benz Vans aims to look beyond vehicle sales to increase commercial fleet uptime, efficiency, and productivity.

Volvo Trucks introduces electric truck rated for up to 80 tons gross combination weight

Volvo Trucks is expanding its electric lineup with a new variant of the Volvo FH Electric and FH Aero Electric tailored for heavy-duty applications. Designed for gross combination weights (GCW) of up to 80 tons, the truck is scheduled to launch in early 2027, initially rolling out in Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Switzerland.

The new version features 640 kWh of usable battery capacity. Operating at a GCW of 64 tons, it achieves a range of up to 450 kilometers (approx. 280 miles); at 74 or 76 tons, it reaches up to 420 kilometers (approx. 260 miles). Megawatt charging (MCS) at up to 680 kW allows the battery to charge from 20 to 80 percent in about 36 minutes, while CCS2 charging supports up to 360 kW for an 80% charge in around 70 minutes.

ZF showcases new powertrain, safety, and software solutions for commercial vehicles

ZF presented new technologies for electrified commercial vehicles at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026. Highlights included the TraXon Hybrid for long-haul transport, the CeTrax 2 electric central drive featuring higher power outputs and power take-off options, and the AxTrax 2 e-axle engineered for higher gross weight ratings. The portfolio is rounded out by a modular e-Drive Kit for diverse electric propulsion setups.

ZF also showcased advances in braking systems and auxiliary units. The new Air Supply Unit integrates an electrified scroll compressor with air processing technology into a unified system. Making its world premiere, the new MAXX Uniper pneumatic disc brake offers enhanced performance while reducing brake particle emissions in line with upcoming Euro 7 regulations.

For automated and software-defined driving, ZF combines scalable camera and radar systems with 360-degree safety functions, automated braking intervention, and a new central control unit. Additional highlights included iEBS trailer braking technology, Truck-Trailer Link, and over-the-air software capabilities. A service-oriented vehicle architecture serves as the foundation for ZF’s push toward the Software-Defined Commercial Vehicle.

Electreon introduces new wireless charging solution

Electreon premiered Electreon Lite DOT—a new stationary wireless charging solution for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. It is designed to make EV charging as effortless as parking. Lite DOT simplifies charging for electric cars and light commercial vehicles, including autonomous vehicles, making it more convenient and efficient for both fleet managers and private owners. The hassle of handling charging cables is completely eliminated: once the vehicle is parked, the system detects it and automatically initiates charging. Lite DOT delivers up to 11 kilowatts (kW) of power, matching standard residential charging speeds. Suitable for both outdoor and indoor garage installations, the system operates reliably through rain, snow, and temperatures ranging from -22°F to 122°F (-30°C to +50°C).

Turntide unveils compact axial flux drives for commercial vehicles

At IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026, Turntide Technologies debuted its new Axial Flux Electric Drive Unit (EDU), electric power take-offs (ePTO), and hybrid systems. The modular EDU combines an electric motor, inverter, and differential into one unit designed for commercial, construction, and off-highway vehicles. Compared to radial flux EDUs, Turntide states it offers 53 percent higher torque density in a package that is 58 percent smaller and 37 percent lighter.

For applications such as refuse trucks, concrete mixers, and cranes, Turntide showcased an ePTO system that powers equipment electrically to eliminate engine idling. The scalable architecture comes in 50, 100, or 150 kW configurations, achieves peak efficiency above 90 percent, and delivers full torque right from 0 RPM.

The portfolio is complemented by modular hybrid systems spanning outputs from 55 kW to 1 MW. The axial flux platform supports both series/range-extender and parallel hybrid architectures, making it suitable for integration into both new and existing vehicle platforms.

BYD ETT 44: New electric truck with 651 kWh battery and 1.5 MW charging

BYD Commercial Vehicles showcased its most extensive European electric commercial vehicle portfolio to date at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026. Taking center stage was the new ETT 44, an electric tractor unit engineered for long-haul transport. Complemented by new 4x2 and 6x2 trucks, BYD’s lineup now spans commercial vehicles from 3.5 to 44 tons.

The ETT 44 generates up to 1,000 hp and features a 651 kWh Blade Battery providing an estimated range of up to 372 miles (approx. 600 kilometers). Thanks to new 1.5 MW charging technology, the battery can charge from 20 to 80 percent in roughly 20 minutes, adding up to 250 miles (400 kilometers) of range. BYD backs the battery with a standard 10-year or 750,000-mile (1.2 million km) warranty.

In addition to vehicles, BYD offers an integrated ecosystem including charging infrastructure, energy storage, energy management, and financing. This end-to-end approach aims to ease the transition into the European heavy-duty electric truck market by supplying vehicles, energy, and infrastructure from a single provider.

Maxus showcases European debut, German premiere, and Robovan at the IAA

At IAA TRANSPORTATION, Maxus is showcasing an all-electric 42-ton truck making its European debut. The eDeliver 420L is a semi-truck tractor based on the modular AILink architecture and consistently engineered for maximum long-haul efficiency. Intelligent energy management with 5-stage regenerative braking dramatically optimizes energy consumption per ton-kilometer. Alongside this, Maxus is presenting the German premiere of the Deliver 75, marking its entry into the fiercely competitive 7.5-ton chassis class designed for urban distribution and municipal use. Looking to the future of driverless city logistics, Maxus is also showcasing the RoboVan, which operates autonomously at Level 4. According to the company, the concept—powered by proprietary SAIC automation technology—has already completed over 10 million accident-free kilometers in real-world testing. Equipped with three LiDAR sensors and eleven cameras, the van navigates urban areas independently, offering up to 1,500 kilograms (3,300 lbs) of payload capacity and over six cubic meters (212 cu ft) of cargo space.

Skyworth debuts Z9 autonomous electric truck at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026

Skyworth Auto made its debut at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026, presenting five electrified, intelligent commercial vehicles. The centerpiece was the world premiere of the Z9—a fully electric heavy truck engineered for Level 4 autonomous driving, designed for deployment in ports, steel mills, rail yards, and logistics corridors.

The Z9 features a 400 kWh LFP battery and a dual-motor powertrain generating 610 kW. Built for connected autonomous fleets, its intelligent dispatching, route optimization, and vehicle coordination systems allow a single operator to manage up to 18 autonomous vehicles simultaneously.

Skyworth also showcased the G18 autonomous electric refuse truck and the Urban Elf Robobus, both engineered for Level 4 operations. The lineup was completed by the HONGTU V9 all-electric van for last-mile urban logistics and the HONGTU X chassis with a range extender for customizable body builds.

Neolix establishes European headquarters in Luxembourg for L4 autonomous RoboVans

Neolix announced plans to establish its European headquarters in Luxembourg at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026, signaling a transition from individual pilot projects to full commercial deployment of autonomous delivery vehicles. Luxembourg will serve as the corporate and regulatory base for its European operations.

Neolix is actively operating in Luxembourg, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal, France, and Switzerland, building partnerships across operations, mapping, connectivity, and edge computing. The goal is to deliver a scalable Level 4 driverless urban delivery service, framed long-term as “RoboVan-as-a-Service.”

Globally, Neolix reports deploying approximately 27,000 RoboVans and logging over 140 million miles (230 million kilometers) in service, with over 620,000 autonomous miles added daily. By establishing local entities, collaborating with European partners, and ensuring full compliance with data protection, AI regulation, and vehicle homologation standards, the company aims to systematically scale its commercial operations across Europe.

Stars of the Year Awards have been crowned

The stars of the international commercial vehicle industry have been crowned: The prestigious 'Stars of the Year Awards' were presented on Press Day at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026. The awards recognized outstanding achievements and pioneering innovations in the International Truck of the Year, Truck Innovation Award, International Van of the Year, and International Trailer Award categories.

Volvo Trucks' new electric truck range has been named International Truck of the Year 2027. The new generation, which includes the FH, FM, FMX, and FH Aero Electric model families, impressed the 24-member jury with its combination of longer range, a broad range of applications, high energy efficiency, and operational flexibility.

Automotive supplier ZF won the TRUCK INNOVATION AWARD 2027 for its TraXon Hybrid technology. With TraXon Hybrid, ZF integrates hybrid technology directly into the transmission architecture of heavy commercial vehicles. The system combines ZF's longstanding expertise in heavy-duty transmissions with the company's experience in electrified powertrains, offering vehicle manufacturers an additional way to reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.

The central criterion for naming a vehicle International Van of the Year is its contribution to high standards of efficiency and safety, environmental and climate protection, and sustainability in the transport of light goods by road. The jury concluded that the new, fourth generation of the Trafic E-Tech Electric meets these requirements exceptionally well.

The Stellantis ProOne Compact Van took second place, while the new Farizon V7E and the latest Volkswagen Caddy Cargo shared third place.

The International Trailer Award 2027 recognized achievements across five categories, honoring developments that stand out for their technological innovation and practical solutions.

In the 'Body' category, first place went to Schmitz Cargobull for the S.KO CITY with the S.CU MT-DUALEVAP transport refrigeration unit. Humbaur Dry took second place with the FlexBox Dry, followed by D-Tec in third with the FV-VAC Steered Vacuumliner.

Kögel secured the International Trailer Award 2027 in the 'Chassis' category with the KÖGEL LIGHT PLUS, optimized for electric trucks. Second place went to BPW for its aluminum air suspension hanger bracket for the BPW Airlight II running gear. Junge Fahrzeugbau took third place with Trailerstar.

In the 'Components' category, Kässbohrer impressed the jury with its Modular Floor System K.MFS, securing first place. Carrier Transicold took second place with its innovative safety concept for the use of A2L refrigerants. MRF placed third with the ePeares Access System.

The award in the 'Future' category went to Krone for its innovative TrAIler Health Monitoring System. Fliegl took second place with its chemical container chassis for use with electric tractor units. SDG Modultechnik secured third place with its modified diamond mounting system with a central pivot bearing.

This year also marked the first presentation of the 'Community' Award. Selected by the community, the award went to Koluman for its Adaptive Hidden Sidewall Platform Trailer (AHSP). Aspöck took second place with FlexLED, while Hüffermann placed third with the Schlitten-Carrier HSA 1870 NH.

Visitors to IAA TRANSPORTATION can more over look forward to a special highlight this year: The 'International Truck of the Year 50th Anniversary Exhibition' in Hall 22 features around 20 trucks spanning five decades of the award, including winning vehicles from the past 50 years.