Over two days at Donald E. Stephens Convention Centre, Chicago, iVT Off-Highway Vehicle Technology Expo (iVT Expo) 2024 hosted over 130 exhibitors, over 45 speakers and thousands of visitors from around the world. “Our booth buzzed with excitement as we demonstrated the capabilities of our electric linear actuators designed for various industries” said Progressive Automations, a specialist in automation and motion control products, and iVT Expo exhibitor. “Our team enjoyed interacting with industry leaders, forging meaningful connections, and gaining valuable insights into industrial vehicle technology.”

iVT Expo provided the perfect stage for thousands of visitors to come together to discover the latest innovations across the off-highway vehicle industry. Many exhibitors launched new products at the show and conducted live demonstrations of the latest tech. Attendees were able to see the very latest technology, including J.W Speaker who introduced the new multifunctional Model 93 LED headlight with five-in-one functionality; including front position, daytime running light, low beam, high beam and turn signal.

iVT Expo offered attendees a unique opportunity to learn about the latest technology at the conference and then visit the expo to see the technology in action. It was great to see thousands of visitors growing their professional network and seeing live product demonstrations. The expo was also an opportunity for colleagues who work in different parts of the world to catch up face-to-face. Thomas Group, that operates in Germany said, “It was especially nice that two of our German colleagues, who were on a business trip, visited our US colleagues on site and were able to exchange ideas together.”

The co-located iVT conference also offered visitors the opportunity to gain deeper insights into the industry, learn about upcoming developments, and discover what to look forward to in the future. Held alongside the expo hall, it saw hundreds of industry experts attend to explore crucial industry topics at sessions from over 45 speakers. Talks took place across two rooms conveniently located close to the expo show floor.

A strong theme throughout this year’s conference was the use of sophisticated algorithms, machine learning and real-time data analytics in off-highway vehicles. Technology is constantly evolving, and it is important for the off-highway vehicle industry to stay up to date. Another trend discussed was the need for greener off-highway vehicles which reflects a broader trend across most industries, as sustainability increasingly becomes a critical focus and priority.

Dr Wilfried Aulbur, senior partner at Roland Berger, USA presented the current trends in the off-highway industry. This provided a fantastic backdrop to the rest of the conference that covered both electrification and alternate power sources and autonomous, cab design and evolving digital interface. Dr Wilfried Aulbur also moderated this session of the conference which covered a variety of other topics including:

• The potential liability of UGVs: assessing your product development calculus
• Integrating the usage of clean energy sources into the off-road section
• Convergence of new technologies in connectivity, electromobility and automation

Michael Terzo, founder and CEO at Xirro, LLC, USA, discussed the advantages and benefits of hybridization in off-highway vehicles. He presented hard research and in-field data which left the audience feeling optimistic and excited about the hybrid possibilities the future may bring.

The supporting partners of iVT Expo, Modine and Elevat shared their knowledge. Application Engineering Section Area Manager at Modine, Tiffany Fiedler, spoke about how to maximize battery lifespan with thermal management systems. She discussed the several key considerations that go into selecting and integrating a BTMS for electric off-highway machinery. Together with how integrating the right BTMS will impact the electric vehicle’s battery performance, range and longevity was also discussed.

The founder of Elevat, Adam Livesay, discussed enhancing performance through hydraulic data: collection and utilization strategies for system and machine optimization. The presentation explored advanced methodologies for collecting and using hydraulic data to enhance system and machine performance with a focus on the latest data acquisition techniques, such as IoT-enabled devices and real-time monitoring, providing unprecedented system visibility.

The industry hailed iVT Expo 2024 a huge success and the event will be returning to Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago USA on August, 20 & 21, 2025. Register your interest now to receive event updates to your inbox and be the first to know when conference and expo passes are available.

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