Once again, Solutrans 2025, the biennial commercial vehicle show held at the EurExpo in Lyon, France played host to a number of show premiers, namely from Isuzu, Kia, Renault and MAN.
The big news was from the stage at the Solutrans Gala Dinner, attended by 1,400 people who applaud the winners of a number of International Awards, namely:
Kia PV5 – International Van of the Year 2026
Ford Ranger PHEV – International Pick-up Award 2026/27
DAF XD & XF Electric – International Truck of the Year 2026
Bosch Road Hazard Service – Truck Innovation Award 2026
Kia PV5 Chassis-Cab
Prior to the announcement that the new Kia PV5 was elected International Van of the Year 2026, the South Korean auto manufacturer launched the chassis cab version of the almost mid sized light commercial, adding further versatility to the newly created concept.
Depending on configuration, the sub-five-metre vehicle delivers up 1,005 kilogrammes of payload and up to eight cubic metres of cargo space with a High Box. This matches the capabilities of larger D-segment vans while still retaining compact dimensions and a 5.5-metre turning radius for urban manoeuvrability.
“The launch of the PV5 Chassis Cab underscores our commitment to redefining what a light commercial vehicle can be,” said Marc Hedrich, President & CEO of Kia Europe. “It combines compact efficiency with the carrying capacity of larger vans to offer customers across Europe a responsible, flexible solution for daily operations.”
New Renault Trafic
The new Renault Trafic Van E-Tech electric is built on a new all-electric “skateboard” platform, designed to optimise load capacity, with a minimal front overhang and rear-mounted powertrain. This also makes for a turning circle as small as on a Renault Clio (10.3 metres).
In its L1 body style, the new van offers load capacity of 5.1 m3 for a length of 4.87m and width of 1.92m. The L2 van has load capacity of 5.8 m3 for a length of 5.27m, with a wheelbase that is 40 cm longer. At the same time, overall height has been reduced to 1.90m, ensuring access to all underground car parks.
With output of 150 kW and torque of 345 Nm, new Trafic can reach from 350 to 450 km, depending on the battery pack chosen.
MAN eTGL
MAN Truck & Bus is presenting a new variant of its all-electric MAN eTGL chassis specifically for refrigerated box bodies. This means that the 12-tonne truck now also enables the locally emission-free and very quiet distribution transport of temperature-sensitive goods, such as foodstuffs. A high-voltage interface enables the refrigeration unit to be supplied directly from the vehicle electrical network – efficiently and weight-optimised. MAN’s all-electric refrigerated logistics portfolio thus spans twelve to 42 tonnes.
With a usable battery capacity of 160 kWh, the range of the MAN eTGL is up to 310 kilometres without intermediate charging, depending on the structure and use – more than sufficient for typical day trips in urban and regional distribution transport. Innovative fast-charging technology recharges the two batteries from ten to 80 percent in around 35 minutes. This makes optimal use of break and unloading times and increases the daily range to up to 600 kilometres.
New Isuzu N and F series
Alter seventeen years, Isuzu Truck has introduced the seventh generation N and F series, covering from 3.5 to 14 tonnes, opens a new chapter for the Japanese brand. Apart from the new cab lines, and interior makeover there are a host of advanced safety and driver assistance systems. There is also a new 9-speed dual clutch transmission for the 3.5-litre diesel engines. The new cab on the F series is now wider, at 2.6m compared to 2.535m for the outgoing model.
