The New York Auto Show wrapped up recently with only a few notable revelations. Despite that, many other auto shows, most with even fewer major news stories, will dot the globe throughout the rest of 2023. We wonder how much people even still care about them.
For decades, auto shows were the go-to destination for manufacturers to showcase their latest and greatest products. These events provided an opportunity to take a new car on the road and give the public a chance to see it up close and personal. However, in today’s fast-paced automotive industry, it’s becoming increasingly rare for automakers to hold back their flagship products for a major auto show unveiling.
Automakers now often prefer to create their own events for significant product launches. A prime example of this is the Dodge Demon 170. Stellantis brought the muscle car to the New York Auto Show but not before unveiling it during a standalone event in Las Vegas. Ultimately, many manufacturers are opting to skip traditional auto shows altogether, choosing instead to host their own dedicated events.
More: 2023 New York Auto Show: Hits, Misses And Mega Gallery
At first, the pandemic put a halt on many shows in 2020 but they’ve struggled to make a triumphant return ever since. In fact, COVID-19 is still affecting some shows like China’s Guangzhou Auto Show. In other places like New England, Calgary, and Vancouver, haven’t come back at all. Many times, these shows cite a lack of commitment from automakers. Meanwhile, the Geneva International Motor Show, which was once hailed as the biggest event in the industry, has been cancelled for the fourth consecutive year. Organizers are now looking to host the event in Doha, Qatar in 2023 as an alternative.
It’s not all bad news though. China’s motor shows continue to grow in presence with many western automakers choosing them for world premieres. Here in America, SEMA is planning to take over more of Las Vegas during 2023. Is that an indication that perhaps the tide is turning and that interest in auto shows might begin to grow again?
Despite the challenges facing the industry, there are some positive signs for auto shows. China’s motor shows, in particular, continue to gain traction, with many western automakers opting for world premieres in the country. Here in America, SEMA is planning to take over more of Las Vegas during 2023. Is that an indication that perhaps the tide is turning and that interest in auto shows might begin to grow again?
The truth is though that even if the automakers themselves regain a level of interest in auto shows that it’s you, their customers that determine how successful those shows are. With that in mind, are you still interested in them? What makes or breaks an auto show to you? Let us know in the comments below.
