The iVT Off-Highway Vehicle Technology Expo returns to Chicago as a comprehensive showcase of the latest technologies in the sector. This year’s show brings more exhibitors, new interactive features and a curated selection of speakers addressing the most critical challenges in off-highway
Following a successful iVT Expo in Cologne, the industry is now gearing up for the return of the iVT Off-Highway Vehicle Technology Expo in Chicago. Now in its fourth year, the off-highway technology showcase is making its transatlantic journey to Chicago. Taking place on 20-21 August at the Donald E Stephens Convention Centre, OEMs, system integrators, and tier 1 suppliers across construction, mining, agriculture, material handling and forestry industries will come together to explore the latest innovations driving the future of off-highway. From navigating the energy transition and rise of electrification to integrating autonomous solutions and digital technologies, OEMs are seeking collaboration with suppliers more than ever before. To facilitate this collaboration, the show will host 160 exhibitors – a huge increase from the previous edition. “Ultimately, iVT Off-Highway Vehicle Technology Expo connects leading suppliers, engineers, and decision-makers to accelerate the development of next-generation off-highway vehicles,” says Roz Guarnori, portfolio director.
Addressing challenges
The Off-Highway Evolution Summit will provide the technical backbone of the event. The two-day summit will feature 50 keynote speakers comprised of global OEMs like CNH Industrial, Volvo CE and John Deere, as well as tier 1 suppliers including Danfoss Power Solutions, Parker Hannifin and Bosch Rexroth. “As a delegate, you get access to the Off-Highway Evolution Summit which is colocated with the NFPA Hydraulics Conference,” says Guarnori. “From reducing emissions to navigating digital transformation, every aspect of the event is designed to drive progress and spark innovation. Expect insights into autonomy, electrification and alternate fuels, digitalization and connectivity, advanced hydraulics and cabin technology.”
A key focus of the summit is decarbonisation and helping businesses achieve their sustainability goals, as Guarnori says: “A top priority is the urgent need to reduce emissions and adopt cleaner, low-emission powertrains. The show aims to address this with a whole track devoted to powering the future with electrification, hybrid systems, and alternative fuels.”
“From reducing emissions to navigating digital transformation, every aspect of the event is designed to drive progress and spark innovation”
Navigating market challenges is another central theme for the summit. “Ongoing supply chain disruptions remain a key concern, as do workforce skill shortages and talent gaps, both of which are critical for long-term industry resilience. With increasing regulatory complexity across markets, understanding and managing compliance is another key focus. On top of that, we know many stakeholders are struggling with market uncertainty and investment risk. So, we have created a space for ideas to be shared and solutions to be found,” adds Guarnori.
An interactive showcase
Building on the proven success of the iVT Live Zone at the iVT Expo in Cologne, this interactive area will make its debut this year’s edition of the iVT Off-Highway Vehicle Technology Expo in Chicago. “The feedback we have received from previous editions of the event has been to have more dynamic content, so this year we’re introducing iVT Live Zone for the first time in Chicago, an interactive stage on the expo floor with live debates and Q&A sessions on autonomy, digitalization, electrification and alternate fuels. We’ve also added a Product Showcase, a new feature on the show floor for visitors to see some of the new innovations up-close. It’s completely free to attend and is a fantastic opportunity to take even more value from attending the exhibition,” says Guarnori.
Stay connected
The event offers opportunities beyond the main exhibition and conference. “Networking has always been a key part of iVT OffHighway Vehicle Technology Expo, and this year is no exception,” says Guarnori “Once attendees have their expo or delegate pass, they can download the official event app, a fantastic planning tool to help attendees make the most of their visit. With the app, attendees can book meetings and network with fellow attendees and exhibitors. It also allows them to create their own agenda with the sessions they want to attend, exhibitors they want to meet, and the meetings they have booked. It’s a powerful tool for creating the most productive schedule, to ensure a successful visit. One of the highlights is the drinks reception at the end of day one, held in the expo hall. It always proves to be popular and is a fantastic opportunity for exhibitors and speakers to network in a more relaxed, informal setting.”
Evolving with off-highway
Moving forward, Guarnori highlights how the show will continue to evolve with the industry. “The focus on emerging technologies such as AI, as well as trending topics such as electrification and autonomy allow the iVT Off-Highway Vehicle Technology Expo to continue to stay relevant to its attendees and exhibitors. With the event focused on the latest advancements in next-generation off-highway vehicle technology, the show is naturally evolving with each new edition. The event is also on track to increase the number of international exhibitors, with smarter networking and content opportunities keeping the event at the forefront of off-highway vehicle innovation.”
This article first appeared in the August issue of iVT.
