Cars are no longer just a means for traveling. Today, they symbolize the personality of their owners. For car connoisseurs, collectors, and amateur enthusiasts, a well-put-together car show is nothing short of paradise. Auto manufacturers have been experimenting with the boundaries of mobility for quite many years now, paving the way for futuristic ideas and trends. Everything from eco-friendly vehicles to autonomous technologies to timeless classics finds their way onto the floors of the best motor shows worldwide. It is not unlikely for every person attending these events to find more than one car that suits their tastes perfectly.
Here is a list of some of the most well-known car shows from around the world that car enthusiasts may consider buying tickets to.
10 North American International Auto Show
Usually held every year at Cobo Center in Detroit, USA, the North American International Auto Show goes on for around two weeks. The glitzy affair brings together major innovations in the automotive industry from around the world, including the latest concept cars. Deviating from its tradition, the upcoming show in 2020 will be taking place in June. The last eight days of the two-week show is open for public viewing.
The NAIAS agenda usually includes five segments: The Gallery, Press Preview, Auto-Mobili-D, Industry Preview, Charity Preview, and the Public Show. The 2019 show had an impressive 100,757 visitors.
9 Los Angeles Auto Show
The Los Angeles Auto Show for 2019 recently wrapped up its two-part celebration of cars. A press and trade event, AutoMobility LA is held every year to attract every industry stakeholder, including automakers, tech companies, startups, dealers, developers, designers, government officials, and media, to name a few. The LA Auto Show is then opened up for public viewing.
First held from January 21 to 27, 1907, it takes place over an area of more than 1,000,000 square feet today. From custom cars to new model debuts, the show celebrates it all.
8 Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung
The Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung (IAA), variously known as Frankfurt Motor Show or the International Motor Show Germany, is one of the largest motor shows in the world. Touted by its organizers as the biggest mobility event of the year, the show works around a specific theme every year.
The IAA is broken down into four formats: IAA Exhibition, IAA Experience, IAA Career, and IAA Conference. Passenger vehicles are showcased on odd-numbered years whereas commercial vehicles make their appearance on even-numbered years. The show features everything from classics, to electric vehicles, even alternative drive technologies.
7 Tokyo Motor Show
Hosted by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA), the Tokyo Motor Show is one of the major global car shows recognized by Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles (OICA). With a focus on the future of mobility, the theme for this year's show was Open Future.
Held on odd-numbered years, the 2019 event marked the 46th edition of the show and had a whopping turnout of 1.3 million visitors! Given its location, all top Japanese auto manufacturers debut their latest vehicles on the floor. Creating experiences for visitors is a big part of the event.
6 Geneva International Motor Show
The Swiss city of Geneva hosts one of the most renowned car shows in the world: the Geneva International Motor Show or GIMS. Luxury vehicle brands like Audi, Bugatti, Bentley, BMW, and Aston Martin, to name a few, premiere their newest models at this event.
Other major brands such as Subaru, Nissan, Mitsubishi, and Volkswagen, follow in their footsteps, doing world, European and Swiss premieres on the show floor. The GIMS Tech segment offers a platform for innovators and technology specialists to introduce new ideas and concepts of mobility.
5 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
A true celebration of elegance and charm of classic cars, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance car show is the grand finale of Monterey Car Week. First held in 1950, the car show is steeped in rich automobile history. The motive of this show is to contrast the technologies and designs of prewar and postwar eras. Visitors may encounter a 1930 Mercedes model beside a 1970s Ferrari.
Those with modern tastes will not be disappointed either; concept cars are also showcased at the event. The best vintage cars get to take away awards at the end!
4 Paris Motor Show
The Paris Motor Show, also known as Paris Mondial de l'Automobile, traces a history going back 120 years! The biennial show takes place at Porte de Versailles. Since 1901, the best in motorcycles have been featured beside the latest cars at this event. Looking to capture the interest of a larger audience, its upcoming 2020 edition will feature side events to keep visitors entertained.
From luxury brands like Tesla, Lamborghini, and Maserati, to pocket-friendly Hyundais and KIAs, there is something for every car lover. The show's official boutique sells memorabilia for those who like to shop!
3 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition
The expanding automotive market in China has ensured a successful run for the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition, also known as Auto China since it was first held in 1990. The event takes place every alternate year with the aim of showcasing not only new vehicles but new materials, technologies, equipment, and ideas as well.
On previous occasions, the show has had exhibitors come in from different countries, including the USA, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, Sweden, and Australia, to name a few. Vehicles from global auto brands, concept cars, and new energy vehicles have all graced the show floor.
2 Barcelona International Motor Show
The artistic city of Barcelona hosts the Barcelona International Motor Show or the Automobile Barcelona. The biennial event was first established in 1919. Having completed 100 years in 2019, it happens to be one of the oldest car shows in the world. Several international debuts, as well as European premieres, have taken place over the course of the years at the event.
The centenary celebration was extra special with a 3D trip down memory lane, electric vehicle technology exhibits, and self-driving car concepts, among many other things.
1 Chicago Auto Show
Since its inception in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show has enjoyed a successful run throughout the years. Gearing up for its 112th edition in 2020, the show will be featuring interactive displays put together by the ever-creative global automakers. The show is panned out over a 1 million square feet area at McCormick Place.
The show offers visitors the chance to test-drive vehicles on indoor tracks, as well as outdoor ride and drive routes. Car enthusiasts can expect to see their favorite types of cars, including supercars, sports cars, convertibles, and concepts. With tickets priced at a maximum of $13, this is a must-go event!