The line-up includes two Ford models in the form of the new 2-tonne Transit and Transit Courier along with the latest evolutions of the Fiat Professional and PSA Peugeot/Citroën respective Ducato/Boxer/Relay (or Jumper in some markets).

Renault’s joint venture with GM Opel/Vauxhall sees the introduction of all-new Trafic and Vivaro vans together with a makeover of their Master and Movano LCVs respectively. 

The third-generation Daily from truck brand Iveco is also totally new to the awards as is the Nissan e-NV200, the only all-electric van in the race to Hanover on this occasion. Another strong entry is the newly developed Mercedes-Benz Vito panel van.

The judging panel consisting of 25 leading journalists from Europe’s top commercial vehicle publications will reduce the contenders to a shortlist in the first voting ballot in mid-August with the final vote taking place in early September. The adjudication process will cover every aspect of the van’s design, technology and drivetrain.

The overall winner will be announced and presented at the IAA Commercial Vehicles Show in Hanover, Germany next September.