EVs dominate International Van of the Year shortlist

A number of battery electric light commercial vehicles feature on the shortlist for the International Van of the Year (IVOTY) 2027 award, highlighting the industry’s accelerating shift towards zero-emission transport.

Five manufacturers representing nine light commercial vehicle models have been shortlisted for the award, with most finalists offering battery electric powertrains.

The finalists are:

• Farizon V7E
• Hyundai Staria Electric
• Maxus Deliver 7
• Renault Trafic E-Tech
• Stellantis Pro One New Smart Compact Van (Citroën Berlingo Van First, Fiat Professional Doblò EasyPro, Opel Combo Start and Peugeot Partner Active)
• Volkswagen Caddy Cargo

The shortlist features a mix of European and Asian manufacturers and comes a year after the battery electric Kia PV5 Cargo claimed the 2026 International Van of the Year title.

International Van of the Year chairman Jarlath Sweeney says the growing presence of electric vans reflects the changing direction of the light commercial vehicle market.

“In line with current technology trends, the majority of the contestants are zero-emission offerings, coming from both continents,” says Sweeney.

He says vehicles are judged on their contribution to efficiency, safety, environmental performance and the sustainable transport of light goods.

“The main criterion for the nomination and the election of any van as International Van of the Year is its contribution to high standards of efficiency, safety, with respect to environment and the sustainability of the transport of light goods by road.”

Purpose-built light commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of up to 3.5 tonnes are eligible for the award.

The winner of the International Van of the Year 2027 title will be announced at the IAA Transportation exhibition in Hanover, Germany, during the Night of the Stars gala on September 14.