Brussels Motor Show 2026: Why Fleet Buyers Should Be Paying Attention
Chris Worsley – 13th January 2026
Brussels Motor Show 2026: Why Fleet Buyers Should Be Paying Attention
The first major international motor show of 2026 is currently underway in Belgium, and the Brussels Motor Show is fast becoming one of the most important dates in the automotive calendar.
Showcasing cars, vans and motorcycles, the event continues to grow in both scale and influence. More than 300,000 people attended last year, and organisers expect even higher footfall this year, with over 60 vehicle brands exhibiting. Notably, 2026 also marks the first time the show has featured more than 20 motorcycle manufacturers, underlining its broader mobility focus.
Brussels Steps Into the Spotlight
With the decline of the once-pivotal Geneva Motor Show, Brussels has assumed far greater significance for manufacturers, fleet operators and industry decision-makers alike. The event has also become the home of the European Car of the Year announcement, a prestigious accolade that often signals future fleet trends.
This year’s winner is the Mercedes-Benz CLA, recognised for its blend of efficiency, design and technology. As manufacturers continue to refine EV and hybrid platforms, awards like this are increasingly relevant to fleet buyers balancing total cost of ownership, emissions targets and driver appeal.
Concepts That Point to the Future of Fleet Mobility
One of the most talked-about vehicles at this year’s show is the Citroën ELO concept car and it’s easy to see why. This striking MPV has been designed around flexibility, with a configurable seating layout that allows it to transform seamlessly between:
- A mobile office
- A passenger vehicle
- A sleeping area for two
Far from being a nod to the Electric Light Orchestra, the name ELO cleverly takes inspiration from the second letter of ‘rest’, ‘play’ and ‘work’ a clear signal of how manufacturers are rethinking vehicles to suit modern working patterns.
For fleet operators, concepts like the ELO highlight a growing trend towards multi-purpose vehicles that support hybrid working, mobile teams and new ways of using company vehicles beyond the traditional 9-to-5 commute.
What This Means for Fleets and LCV Operators
The Brussels Motor Show isn’t just about headline-grabbing concepts. It offers a strong indication of where fleet-ready technology is heading, including:
- Greater emphasis on EV practicality, not just range
- Vehicles designed for work-life flexibility
- Continued innovation in LCVs and business-focused models
- A wider ecosystem of mobility, including motorcycles and last-mile solutions
As manufacturers respond to changing business needs, fleet managers should expect more vehicles designed to do more with less, improve driver wellbeing and support evolving operational requirements.
Final Thoughts
The Brussels Motor Show 2026 has firmly established itself as a key event for the automotive and fleet industries. With strong attendance, an expanding exhibitor list and growing influence, it’s clear that Brussels is now setting the tone for the year ahead.
At LetsTalkFleet, we’ll be tracking these developments closely to help you navigate what’s next so if you’d like help reviewing your current fleet strategy or understanding how upcoming vehicle trends could impact your business please get in touch with any specific enquiries you have, we are available on 0330 056 3335 or via email [email protected] .