The great and good of the motor industry gathered again this spring for the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders (SMMT) annual Test Day, held on 21 May 2026 at the UTAC Millbrook proving ground in Bedfordshire. For me, it was another brilliant opportunity to get behind the wheel, ct

State of the industry

The day began with an insightful address from Mike Hawes, SMMT CEO, who delivered his overview of the industry’s state of play. He walked ustryus through the challenges facing manufacturers – the relentless push towards electrification and potential barriers to trade that could reshape the landscape. A sobering reality check before we all headed out to play.

After the safety briefing – always a welcome reminder that Millbrook’s 700-acre facility isn’t a playground, despite how it might feel – it was finally time to head outdoors.

Behind the wheel

For one day each year, this proving ground, normally reserved for vehicle development and testing, opens its gates to journalists, content creators and industry experts. Last year’s event attracted over 280 media attendees with more than 180 vehicles on offer, and 2026 was even bigger.

Many newcomers

The growing number of Chinese brands were well represented with BYD brought six driveable models and a static preview of the upcoming DENZA Z9GT flagship, wheil Chery, Omoda and Jaecoo were well represented, with several models available for journalists to sample across Millbrook’s routes..

The working vehicle zone

A highlight for 2026 was the Working Vehicle Zone (WVZ), with a pre-booking system was a smart move to manage demand.

Other highlights

• Kia and Hyundai – both had strong EVand hubrid line-ups on display.
• Toyota – the new Prius plug-in hybrid and bZ4X were available for testing.
• Honda – the e:Ny1 c rossover and Civic Type R were both present.
• BMW – the new iX3Neue Klasse saloon, with a claimed range of 500 miles plus
• Suzuki – the new Vitara EV was on the road route.
• Farizan Vans – their new electric LCV impressed with its cavernous loadspace and competitive range.
• Aizan – their upcoming SUV was on static display, with clever interior packaging.
• KGM – their latest Rhino pickup and SUVs were on display, attracting plenty of interest.
• Subaru and Isuzu – both brands had vehicles available for testing, with Subaru’s rugged all-wheel-drive models and Isuzu’s commercial offerings drawing attention.

Networking and atmosphere

Beyond the driving, Test Day remains the best networking opportunity in the UK automotive calendar. I caught up with old friends from various motoring publications, made some new contacts among the growing contingent of content creators, and exchanged notes about which vehicles had impressed most.

Final thoughts

As another Test Day drew to a close, it reflected on just how much the automotive landscape has changed. The SMMT Test Day continues to be a must-attend event. I’m already looking forward to 2027.