Executives from DAF Trucks, Iveco, MAN Truck & Bus and Scania will line up tomorrow as part of a special truck manufacturer debate at the Microlise Transport Conference at The Ricoh Arena in Coventry.

In a session called 'Truck to the Future', the debate will look at the current state of the industry and its direction of travel with the expert panellists giving their views on a range of issues.

“This really is a unique opportunity to see the vehicle manufacturers together discussing the big topics which will affect all of us,” said Nadeem Raza, chief executive officer at Microlise.

“From propulsion technology and safety, to autonomous vehicles and the standards, what the truck manufacturers think matters. That’s why we see it as an invaluable activity, getting them together, putting the big questions to them and seeing where we are.”

Truck to the Future is just one part of the Microlise Transport Conference. Chaired by Quentin Willson, motoring industry journalist, author, TV presenter and campaigner, the conference agenda will touch on the key issues affecting commercial fleet operators with presentations delivered by a range of leaders and experts in their fields.

Delegates will hear from two operators, with John Court, chief information officer at Eddie Stobart, and Nigel Tullet, commercial director at Bibby Distribution.

An update on the DVSA’s Earned Recognition Next Generation Enforcement programme will be delivered by Gordon MacDonald, head of enforcement policy. Senior Traffic Commissioner Beverley Bell will also update the audience.

A range of additional speakers and panel sessions will cover topics such as insurance and technology, last-mile delivery, compliance enforcement, data protection, the future of the UK and its impact on logistics.

In addition to the main theatre agenda, delegates will also get access to three workshop areas run by Microlise, the Road Haulage Association and Motor Transport, media partners of the event.

The workshop programmes allow delegates to tailor their experience to focus on topics that are most of interest and relevant to their organisations. In the afternoon the “Truck to the Future” panel debate will be one of the options.