Stars of the Year 2022

The icon among buses in a new electric version: The ID. Buzz from Volkswagen is not only fully electric, but also fully connected. The main criterion for the nomination was its contribution to high efficiency, safety, environmental and sustainability standards in the transport of light goods by road, and the ID more than met them all. At least that's what Jarlath Sweeney, chairman of the International Van of the Year (IVOTY), says: "A unique vehicle perfectly suited to the environmentally conscious urban environment."

Up to 550 kilometers of range, three available lengths, and assistance systems such as the MAN OptiView mirror replacement system: The MAN Lion's City E is now the Bus of the Year 2023, according to jury president Tom Terjesen the most important prize for the global bus industry. The 23-member jury was particularly impressed by the excellent conditions for bus drivers. Terjesen: "The MAN Lion's City E offers one of the best jobs on the market. In this bus, you are the big boss!"

This is the second time that Harald Seidel, President of DAF Trucks, has accepted the prestigious award. "A wonderful recognition for our premium products and our great DAF employees," he said during the award ceremony. "The new generation DAF XD sets new standards in safety, efficiency and driver comfort in its class."

The previous XF, XG and XG+ models were already particularly efficient - thanks in part to optimized aerodynamics and electronics architecture. The XD also offers over-the-air updates and diversity in possible configurations, as well as in the powertrain: a battery-electric version is already available for the XD's debut. The road models still in series production this fall. 

Announced in 2020, the Mercedes-Benz eActros Longhaul is to be tested by customers as early as 2023. A testimony to intensive work on the technologies of the future - at least that's what the international jury of 25 trade journalists says. With its long-life and extremely fast-charging lithium iron phosphate cells, it gives it the Truck Innovation Award 2023. The IToY jury also highlights the compact dimensions of the tractor unit. With a wheelbase of 4 meters, it accommodates three battery packs with a total capacity of more than 600 kWh and two electric motors - as part of a new eActros - with a continuous output of 400 kW.

"The Mercedes-Benz eActros LongHaul opens a new chapter towards e-mobility," says Gianenrico Griffini, Chairman of the International Truck of the Year Jury. "It proves that the shift towards CO2-neutral long-haul transport is an achievable goal, driven by high-tech solutions and continuous investment in research and development."