Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit
Event Details
Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit brings together the vehicle upfitter community with chassis manufacturer technical and engineering experts. This annual conference offers work truck industry professionals the chance to
- Preview commercial vehicle updates
- Engage with OEM engineers on critical upfitting issues
- Learn about changes to powertrains, electrical systems, chassis structures and other vehicle systems
- Speak directly with chassis OEM technical representatives and product specialists
NTEA is accredited by International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) and is authorized to issue IACET continuing education units to Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit attendees.
Registration
12:30–5:30 p.m.
Registration
7 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Breakfast
7:30–8:30 a.m.
Daimler Truck North America Program
8:30–9:15 a.m.
Daimler Truck North America is excited to invite you to learn about the changes to the upfit of their vehicles. Learn about the CHEC tool and the integration of Common Electrical Architecture across all of our brands. We look forward to seeing you and answering your questions.
Daimler Truck North America Display
9:15–10:30 a.m.
Industry Education Session
9:45–10:25 a.m.
Optimizing PTO Selection for Modern Vocational Trucks
This session provides a foundational look at how power takeoffs (PTOs) transfer engine power to auxiliary equipment in commercial vehicles. Attendees will explore PTO principles, key components, and typical applications — along with best practices for integration — offering essential knowledge for effective and safe upfitting.
Presented by: Brad Gulick, Commercial Product Manager, Mobile Power Group, Eaton Corp.
Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Program
10:30–11:15 a.m.
Isuzu Commercial Truck of America will present product updates for current line up, market overview, and insight on future plans.
Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Display
11:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Industry Education Session
11:45 a.m.–12:25 p.m.
Hybrid Integration and Drive Axle Solutions for Commercial Vehicles
Explore the latest in hybrid powertrain and drive axle technologies shaping the future of commercial vehicle upfitting. This session covers the flexibility of motor generator unit (MGU) range extenders — balancing battery size with range — and compares central drive axles versus eAxles in terms of efficiency, cost, regen, and integration complexity. Featuring Class 4–6 examples and an overview of Linamar’s customizable eMD15 system, attendees will gain practical insight into how these technologies apply to both upfits and purpose-built platforms.
Presented by: Eric West, Senior Product Engineer, Linamar
Lunch
12:30–1:30 p.m.
GM Envolve Program
1:45–2:30 p.m.
GM Envolve will cover important technical information related to chassis, design, body installation and equipment mounting options. OEM representatives will discuss the company’s plans for activity in the commercial vehicle space.
GM Envolve Display
2:30–3:45 p.m.
Industry Education Session
3–3:40 p.m.
Ask the Experts: Q&A with NTEA Technical Services
Join the NTEA Technical Services team for a Q&A session, based on member feedback, designed to tackle your most pressing challenges in commercial vehicle upfitting. Whether you're navigating chassis integration, compliance with regulatory requirements, weight distribution, or certification best practices, this session gives you real-time access to industry-leading technical support.
Presented by: Leighton Good, Senior Technical Services Specialist, NTEA; Bob Raybuck, Director of Technical Services, NTEA; and Steve Spata, Senior Technical Assistance Director, NTEA
Industry Education Session
3:50–4:30 p.m.
Lightweighting Strategies for Commercial Vehicle Upfitters
Explore how reducing vehicle weight can boost fuel economy, increase payload, and support regulatory compliance. This session offers practical strategies for upfitters to implement lightweighting without sacrificing performance. Learn how smarter design and material choices can deliver long-term efficiency gains.
Presented by: Craig Bonham, Sr. VP Business Development, M.H. Eby, Inc.
Industry Reception
4:30–6 p.m.
With respect to the confidentiality of chassis manufacturer information shared during Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit, OEM registrants are requested to refrain from attending competitor programs and displays.
Registration
7:15 a.m.–3:45 p.m.
Breakfast
7:30–8:30 a.m.
Hino Trucks and Toyota Motors North America Combined Program
8:30–9:15 a.m.
Hino Trucks will display their latest product technology and discuss current and future model year truck features. Toyota Motors North America will display the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra.
Hino Trucks and Toyota Motors North America Combined Display
9:15–10:30 a.m.
Industry Education Session
9:45–10:25 a.m.
Next-Gen Hydraulics: Quieter, More Efficient Solutions for Upfitters
Hydraulic systems are transforming to meet rising demands for efficiency, serviceability, and quieter operation. This session explores how new hydraulic technologies are addressing regulatory changes, cutting total operating costs, and improving uptime for commercial vehicle upfitters.
Presented by: David Stevenson, VP of Marketing and Product Management, Bucher Hydraulics North America
RAM Professional Program
10:30–11:15 a.m.
Ram Professional will cover important technical information related to chassis, design, body installation and equipment mounting options. OEM representatives will discuss the company's plans for activity in the commercial vehicle space.
RAM Professional Display
11:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Industry Education Session
11:45 a.m.–12:25 p.m.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Testing and the Commercial Upfitting Market
As ADAS technologies become more available in commercial vehicles, upfitters must understand how modifications can impact performance and system functionality. This session highlights key testing protocols and best practices for maintaining ADAS integrity during the upfitting process. Learn how to navigate the evolving safety landscape and ensure your builds support today’s advanced vehicle systems.
Presented by: Cody Harris, R&D Engineer, Transportation Research Center
Lunch
12:30–1:30 p.m.
Ford Pro Program
1:45–2:30 p.m.
Ford Pro will present the latest technical details (including chassis designs, specifications, and body installation/equipment mounting options) on its vehicle models.
Ford Pro Display
2:30–3:45 p.m.
With respect to the confidentiality of chassis manufacturer information shared during Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit, OEM registrants are requested to refrain from attending competitor programs and displays.
Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit will showcase Industry Resource Displays with Lincoln Electric, S&P Global Mobility, TruckScience and WorkTruckCert. Visit during program hours to meet representatives ready to share how their wide range of services and solutions can enhance business and customer relations in the work truck industry.
LINCOLN ELECTRIC
Improve your welding quality and consistency with NTEA’s Work Truck Industry Welder Certification Program.
S&P GLOBAL MOBILITY
With deep insight into the 32 million commercial vehicles and 3.5 million fleets currently on the road in North America, S&P Global Mobility can give you the insight you need to power growth and gain market visibility to drive a sustainable competitive advantage.
TRUCKSCIENCE
TruckScience, a proud partner of NTEA, offers members software for spec'ing the best truck for the job. The program calculates axle weights, dimensions, center of gravity and maximum payload, to deliver safe, legal and efficient trucks.
WORKTRUCKCERT
This cloud-based program — available free to the commercial vehicle industry — is designed to streamline the completion and printing of vehicle certification labels. The system archives vehicle records and helps companies document conformance with NHTSA-required safety standards.
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
7000 Kalahari Dr.
Sandusky, Ohio 44870
877-525-2427 (booking ID 40155)
Book online
A special NTEA group rate of $138 is available to attendees. Book by Sept. 9, 2025, to receive this discounted rate. If reserving by phone, reference booking ID 40155.
Transportation and parking
- Hotel check-in is located in the main lobby, accessed from the Resort Entrance. Attendees can get to Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit by going through the hotel main lobby or entering the Convention Center through Entrance A or B doors (parking available at these entrances).
- Directions to Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
- Resort map
Offering first-class service and amenities, Kalahari features on-site restaurants, fitness and training center, and entertainment venues.
Kalahari is cashless
In order to provide a smoother and safer transaction for guests and associates, Kalahari is 100% cashless and accepts credit card and mobile payments (Apple/Google Pay) as well as room charges through guest RFID wristbands. Should you arrive on property with only cash, there are kiosks to exchange your dollars onto a Mastercard that can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted. Learn more at kalahariresorts.com/ohio/ways-to-pay.
Questions
Contact info@ntea.com or 248-489-7090.
What is Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit?
Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit is an annual event which offers the work truck industry technical community the opportunity to preview commercial vehicle updates and engage with OEM engineers on critical upfitting issues. Industry professionals can:
- Learn about important changes to powertrains, electrical systems, chassis structures and other vehicle systems
- Speak directly with chassis OEM engineers and product specialists, which translates to practical support for upfitters
- Network with other industry professionals
- Participate in Q&A with OEM representatives
When and where is it held?
This year’s event is Oct. 14–15, 2025, at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Sandusky, Ohio. View a full schedule of events.
Who should attend?
Engineering professionals working in the commercial vehicle industry should attend, including:
- Final-stage equipment manufacturers and distributors
- Installation shop and engineering professionals
- Commercial vehicle fleets
- Vehicle modifiers and equipment installers
Who presents?
Leading chassis OEM engineers and product specialists share technical details on their latest models, including upfitter modifications and body builder information, and participate in a Q&A with attendees. View schedule of events.
In what time zone will event activities occur?
All scheduled activities will be held in Eastern Time.
What is the cost to attend? Will discounts be offered to NTEA members?
The cost is $229 members and $329 nonmembers if registering on or before Sept. 9. Prices increase to $279 members and $379 nonmembers after Sept. 9. Check your membership status.
How do I register?
Register online or call 248-489-7090.
How can I book my room?
Reserve online or by phone at 877-525-2427 (use booking ID 40155).
What does the registration fee include?
Registration includes full event access:
- Industry Reception Oct. 14
- Breakfast and lunch Oct. 14–15
- Presentations and displays from chassis OEMs
- Industry Education Sessions
- Industry Resource Displays
I just registered. When will I receive a confirmation?
Within 24 hours of registering, you’ll receive an event order confirmation email. Badges will be available for pickup on-site.
How can I update or change my registration information?
Please email registrar@ntea.com or call 248-489-7090.
Is there an event cancellation and refund policy?
If for some unforeseen reason NTEA should have to cancel or truncate Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit, attendee agrees its sole remedy for a cancelled or shortened event is the return of all or a prorated portion, as applicable, of the registration fee. Registrants will be responsible for cancellation of travel arrangements or housing reservations and the applicable fees. Attendee cancellations received in writing after Sept. 22, 2025, are not entitled to a refund, but name transfers are permitted. Please send all cancellation or change requests to registrar@ntea.com. View NTEA’s event policy.
I work for a chassis manufacturer. Am I allowed to attend competitors’ sessions?
With respect to the confidentiality of chassis manufacturer information shared during Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit, OEM registrants are requested to refrain from attending competitor sessions. Please contact NTEA at info@ntea.com with questions.
Whom should I contact regarding dietary needs at this event?
If you have special dietary requirements, please email jenelle@ntea.com.
Can I earn continuing education credit by attending Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit?
International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) awarded NTEA the industry-respected Accredited Provider status. IACET Accredited Providers are the only organizations approved to offer IACET continuing education units (CEUs). If you’re attending Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit and are interested in obtaining a certificate of achievement with IACET CEUs, please complete the CEU section in the overall conference survey you’ll receive via email following the event. A PDF of the certificate will be sent once attendance is verified.
Who hosts Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit?
Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit is hosted by NTEA – The Work Truck Association.
For additional questions or information, email info@ntea.com.
About
Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit brings together the vehicle upfitter community with chassis manufacturer technical and engineering experts. This annual conference offers work truck industry professionals the chance to
- Preview commercial vehicle updates
- Engage with OEM engineers on critical upfitting issues
- Learn about changes to powertrains, electrical systems, chassis structures and other vehicle systems
- Speak directly with chassis OEM technical representatives and product specialists
NTEA is accredited by International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) and is authorized to issue IACET continuing education units to Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit attendees.
Schedule
Registration
12:30–5:30 p.m.
Registration
7 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Breakfast
7:30–8:30 a.m.
Daimler Truck North America Program
8:30–9:15 a.m.
Daimler Truck North America is excited to invite you to learn about the changes to the upfit of their vehicles. Learn about the CHEC tool and the integration of Common Electrical Architecture across all of our brands. We look forward to seeing you and answering your questions.
Daimler Truck North America Display
9:15–10:30 a.m.
Industry Education Session
9:45–10:25 a.m.
Optimizing PTO Selection for Modern Vocational Trucks
This session provides a foundational look at how power takeoffs (PTOs) transfer engine power to auxiliary equipment in commercial vehicles. Attendees will explore PTO principles, key components, and typical applications — along with best practices for integration — offering essential knowledge for effective and safe upfitting.
Presented by: Brad Gulick, Commercial Product Manager, Mobile Power Group, Eaton Corp.
Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Program
10:30–11:15 a.m.
Isuzu Commercial Truck of America will present product updates for current line up, market overview, and insight on future plans.
Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Display
11:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Industry Education Session
11:45 a.m.–12:25 p.m.
Hybrid Integration and Drive Axle Solutions for Commercial Vehicles
Explore the latest in hybrid powertrain and drive axle technologies shaping the future of commercial vehicle upfitting. This session covers the flexibility of motor generator unit (MGU) range extenders — balancing battery size with range — and compares central drive axles versus eAxles in terms of efficiency, cost, regen, and integration complexity. Featuring Class 4–6 examples and an overview of Linamar’s customizable eMD15 system, attendees will gain practical insight into how these technologies apply to both upfits and purpose-built platforms.
Presented by: Eric West, Senior Product Engineer, Linamar
Lunch
12:30–1:30 p.m.
GM Envolve Program
1:45–2:30 p.m.
GM Envolve will cover important technical information related to chassis, design, body installation and equipment mounting options. OEM representatives will discuss the company’s plans for activity in the commercial vehicle space.
GM Envolve Display
2:30–3:45 p.m.
Industry Education Session
3–3:40 p.m.
Ask the Experts: Q&A with NTEA Technical Services
Join the NTEA Technical Services team for a Q&A session, based on member feedback, designed to tackle your most pressing challenges in commercial vehicle upfitting. Whether you're navigating chassis integration, compliance with regulatory requirements, weight distribution, or certification best practices, this session gives you real-time access to industry-leading technical support.
Presented by: Leighton Good, Senior Technical Services Specialist, NTEA; Bob Raybuck, Director of Technical Services, NTEA; and Steve Spata, Senior Technical Assistance Director, NTEA
Industry Education Session
3:50–4:30 p.m.
Lightweighting Strategies for Commercial Vehicle Upfitters
Explore how reducing vehicle weight can boost fuel economy, increase payload, and support regulatory compliance. This session offers practical strategies for upfitters to implement lightweighting without sacrificing performance. Learn how smarter design and material choices can deliver long-term efficiency gains.
Presented by: Craig Bonham, Sr. VP Business Development, M.H. Eby, Inc.
Industry Reception
4:30–6 p.m.
With respect to the confidentiality of chassis manufacturer information shared during Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit, OEM registrants are requested to refrain from attending competitor programs and displays.
Registration
7:15 a.m.–3:45 p.m.
Breakfast
7:30–8:30 a.m.
Hino Trucks and Toyota Motors North America Combined Program
8:30–9:15 a.m.
Hino Trucks will display their latest product technology and discuss current and future model year truck features. Toyota Motors North America will display the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra.
Hino Trucks and Toyota Motors North America Combined Display
9:15–10:30 a.m.
Industry Education Session
9:45–10:25 a.m.
Next-Gen Hydraulics: Quieter, More Efficient Solutions for Upfitters
Hydraulic systems are transforming to meet rising demands for efficiency, serviceability, and quieter operation. This session explores how new hydraulic technologies are addressing regulatory changes, cutting total operating costs, and improving uptime for commercial vehicle upfitters.
Presented by: David Stevenson, VP of Marketing and Product Management, Bucher Hydraulics North America
RAM Professional Program
10:30–11:15 a.m.
Ram Professional will cover important technical information related to chassis, design, body installation and equipment mounting options. OEM representatives will discuss the company's plans for activity in the commercial vehicle space.
RAM Professional Display
11:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Industry Education Session
11:45 a.m.–12:25 p.m.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Testing and the Commercial Upfitting Market
As ADAS technologies become more available in commercial vehicles, upfitters must understand how modifications can impact performance and system functionality. This session highlights key testing protocols and best practices for maintaining ADAS integrity during the upfitting process. Learn how to navigate the evolving safety landscape and ensure your builds support today’s advanced vehicle systems.
Presented by: Cody Harris, R&D Engineer, Transportation Research Center
Lunch
12:30–1:30 p.m.
Ford Pro Program
1:45–2:30 p.m.
Ford Pro will present the latest technical details (including chassis designs, specifications, and body installation/equipment mounting options) on its vehicle models.
Ford Pro Display
2:30–3:45 p.m.
With respect to the confidentiality of chassis manufacturer information shared during Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit, OEM registrants are requested to refrain from attending competitor programs and displays.
Industry Resources
Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit will showcase Industry Resource Displays with Lincoln Electric, S&P Global Mobility, TruckScience and WorkTruckCert. Visit during program hours to meet representatives ready to share how their wide range of services and solutions can enhance business and customer relations in the work truck industry.
LINCOLN ELECTRIC
Improve your welding quality and consistency with NTEA’s Work Truck Industry Welder Certification Program.
S&P GLOBAL MOBILITY
With deep insight into the 32 million commercial vehicles and 3.5 million fleets currently on the road in North America, S&P Global Mobility can give you the insight you need to power growth and gain market visibility to drive a sustainable competitive advantage.
TRUCKSCIENCE
TruckScience, a proud partner of NTEA, offers members software for spec'ing the best truck for the job. The program calculates axle weights, dimensions, center of gravity and maximum payload, to deliver safe, legal and efficient trucks.
WORKTRUCKCERT
This cloud-based program — available free to the commercial vehicle industry — is designed to streamline the completion and printing of vehicle certification labels. The system archives vehicle records and helps companies document conformance with NHTSA-required safety standards.
Hotel
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
7000 Kalahari Dr.
Sandusky, Ohio 44870
877-525-2427 (booking ID 40155)
Book online
A special NTEA group rate of $138 is available to attendees. Book by Sept. 9, 2025, to receive this discounted rate. If reserving by phone, reference booking ID 40155.
Transportation and parking
- Hotel check-in is located in the main lobby, accessed from the Resort Entrance. Attendees can get to Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit by going through the hotel main lobby or entering the Convention Center through Entrance A or B doors (parking available at these entrances).
- Directions to Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
- Resort map
Offering first-class service and amenities, Kalahari features on-site restaurants, fitness and training center, and entertainment venues.
Kalahari is cashless
In order to provide a smoother and safer transaction for guests and associates, Kalahari is 100% cashless and accepts credit card and mobile payments (Apple/Google Pay) as well as room charges through guest RFID wristbands. Should you arrive on property with only cash, there are kiosks to exchange your dollars onto a Mastercard that can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted. Learn more at kalahariresorts.com/ohio/ways-to-pay.
Questions
Contact info@ntea.com or 248-489-7090.
FAQs
What is Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit?
Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit is an annual event which offers the work truck industry technical community the opportunity to preview commercial vehicle updates and engage with OEM engineers on critical upfitting issues. Industry professionals can:
- Learn about important changes to powertrains, electrical systems, chassis structures and other vehicle systems
- Speak directly with chassis OEM engineers and product specialists, which translates to practical support for upfitters
- Network with other industry professionals
- Participate in Q&A with OEM representatives
When and where is it held?
This year’s event is Oct. 14–15, 2025, at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Sandusky, Ohio. View a full schedule of events.
Who should attend?
Engineering professionals working in the commercial vehicle industry should attend, including:
- Final-stage equipment manufacturers and distributors
- Installation shop and engineering professionals
- Commercial vehicle fleets
- Vehicle modifiers and equipment installers
Who presents?
Leading chassis OEM engineers and product specialists share technical details on their latest models, including upfitter modifications and body builder information, and participate in a Q&A with attendees. View schedule of events.
In what time zone will event activities occur?
All scheduled activities will be held in Eastern Time.
What is the cost to attend? Will discounts be offered to NTEA members?
The cost is $229 members and $329 nonmembers if registering on or before Sept. 9. Prices increase to $279 members and $379 nonmembers after Sept. 9. Check your membership status.
How do I register?
Register online or call 248-489-7090.
How can I book my room?
Reserve online or by phone at 877-525-2427 (use booking ID 40155).
What does the registration fee include?
Registration includes full event access:
- Industry Reception Oct. 14
- Breakfast and lunch Oct. 14–15
- Presentations and displays from chassis OEMs
- Industry Education Sessions
- Industry Resource Displays
I just registered. When will I receive a confirmation?
Within 24 hours of registering, you’ll receive an event order confirmation email. Badges will be available for pickup on-site.
How can I update or change my registration information?
Please email registrar@ntea.com or call 248-489-7090.
Is there an event cancellation and refund policy?
If for some unforeseen reason NTEA should have to cancel or truncate Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit, attendee agrees its sole remedy for a cancelled or shortened event is the return of all or a prorated portion, as applicable, of the registration fee. Registrants will be responsible for cancellation of travel arrangements or housing reservations and the applicable fees. Attendee cancellations received in writing after Sept. 22, 2025, are not entitled to a refund, but name transfers are permitted. Please send all cancellation or change requests to registrar@ntea.com. View NTEA’s event policy.
I work for a chassis manufacturer. Am I allowed to attend competitors’ sessions?
With respect to the confidentiality of chassis manufacturer information shared during Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit, OEM registrants are requested to refrain from attending competitor sessions. Please contact NTEA at info@ntea.com with questions.
Whom should I contact regarding dietary needs at this event?
If you have special dietary requirements, please email jenelle@ntea.com.
Can I earn continuing education credit by attending Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit?
International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) awarded NTEA the industry-respected Accredited Provider status. IACET Accredited Providers are the only organizations approved to offer IACET continuing education units (CEUs). If you’re attending Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit and are interested in obtaining a certificate of achievement with IACET CEUs, please complete the CEU section in the overall conference survey you’ll receive via email following the event. A PDF of the certificate will be sent once attendance is verified.
Who hosts Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit?
Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit is hosted by NTEA – The Work Truck Association.
For additional questions or information, email info@ntea.com.