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Although the Commercial Vehicle Show is aimed at operators and those with their hands on the company chequebooks, there is always a lot at the show for drivers. This year the revamped Mercedes Actros and Renault Magnum both had a high number of drivers climbing through to look at the improvements that had been made. The already popular Magnum in particular seems to have addressed to many drivers' satisfaction the issue of storage inside the cabin.

It isn't often that drivers have their  attention drawn away from the glamour of the tractor units to the smaller trucks, but Isuzu's launch of a complete new range up to 18 tonnes led the curious to its stand to take a look at what they could be driving soon. Certainly the Isuzu staff were more than happy to hear what drivers thought of the new products and the drivers seemed positive about the new vehicles.

But without doubt the big issue for drivers at the NEC this year was the upcoming Driver CPC. A joint Vosa/DSA stand was swamped at times by drivers with concerns over the vocational training requirements. Tachodisc, which (among other services) provides training to the industry, reported that many drivers came to see them to find out the real implications for them as professionals. While training providers are working hard to explain to the industry the Driver CPC and all it entails, it seems it is quite difficult to dispel some of the myths that are circulating among drivers.

Yet again this year, the Commercial  Motor, Motor Transport, Roadtransport.com, Truck & Driver and TruckNet UK joint stand provided a focal point for all our readers and users to meet up, take a break from the hurly-burly of the show, have a coffee and chat. Drivers, owners and other transport professionals dropped by throughout the three days. With some of the more outlandish rumours buzzing around the shows concerning the futures of some very well known hauliers, at times it seemed that the only voices of reason were emanating from the guest area on our booth.