CPD Bodies wins WhatVan? Converter of the Year 2026
Award recognises customer-centred innovation, EV leadership and rapid national growth
Stockton-on-Tees-based CPD Bodies, one of the UK’s leading commercial vehicle conversion specialists, has been awarded the prestigious WhatVan? Converter of the Year 2026 title, recognising excellence in customer experience, production capability, EV-ready innovation and market-leading turnaround times.
The award was accepted at the 2026 ceremony by Founder and Managing Director Cathal Doocey.
Speaking shortly after the announcement, Cathal noted, “This award reflects the trust our customers place in us. Everything we do is about giving them a faster, clearer and more reliable build experience and that’s down to the hard work of our team.”
The win comes during CPD Bodies’ strongest year to date, having delivered over 2,900 conversions in 2024/25, expanded its stockholding and accelerated build lead times through a lean, line-based production system. With a £1 million new production facility, a new panel van workshop set to open, and major investment in EV-ready platforms, the company has demonstrated both resilience and forward-thinking leadership across the LCV sector.
WhatVan? judges highlighted CPD’s commitment to customer-centricity, including its full in-house capability; a unique, secure digital customer portal that provides real-time build tracking for customers; significant chassis and parts stockholding that reduces downtime and enables fast build starts; robust EV capability, with Type Approval for 4.25-tonne electric LCV options; and a sustainability-focused manufacturing approach.
Commenting on the impact of the win, Tom, Commercial Director, added “Our focus is simple: deliver what customers need today and prepare them for the vehicle requirements of tomorrow. WhatVan? recognising that approach is a proud moment for everyone at CPD.”
The award further cements CPD’s position as a trusted partner to fleets, utilities, local authorities, infrastructure firms and independent trades nationwide and underscores its role in driving the future of compliant, efficient and sustainable commercial vehicle conversions.
