The award – judged by leading road testers from 23 countries across Europe and Russia – was presented at a gala dinner on the eve of the 65th IAA Show in Hanover.

The newly launched Daily won by a margin of 17 points from the second-placed Mercedes-Benz Vito, also beating the two-tonne Ford Transit into third place. Its victory comes in a highly competitive year that featured 12 new light commercial vehicles vying for the title.

Jarlath Sweeney, chairman of the International Van of the Year jury, said: ‘Congratulations to Iveco on designing and producing an excellent range with the New Daily family that includes both vans and chassis cabs, with a selection of powertrains which include diesel, natural gas, and electric.

‘This is the second time the Iveco Daily has won this award; the first was back in 2000, and tonight is equally well deserved.’