Auto shows are big business and an even bigger deal for motor manufacturers. Depending on location and timing, mainstream auto makers will use these platforms to launch all-news models. More often than not, though, you will see a firm’s current line-up with the occasional concept car that points to future design direction.
The turnstiles at the traditional season-opener, Detroit – officially known as the North American International Auto Show – have just stopped spinning, but manufacturers have already started heading to the next major city to showcase its wares.
Below we have a list of some of the bigger shows on the calendar and those that are relevant to South African car enthusiasts, as the products seen there often make their way to SA. There are stalwarts of the international show scene such as Paris and Geneva, but with markets in the East showing a real appetite for new cars, especially high-end shows in the Orient have proved to be larger than the European counterparts.
Delhi Auto Show aka the Auto Expo: 7-11 February, India Expo Mart, Greater Noida
International Geneva Motor Show: 6-16 March, 1218 Grand-Saconnex
New York International Auto Show: 18-27 April, Jacob, Javits Centre
Beijing Auto Show aka Auto China: 23-29 April, China International Exhibition Centre
Paris Motor Show: 4-19 October, Paris Expo – Porte de Versailles
LA Auto Show: 21-30 November, LA Convention Centre
