The Geneva Motor Show is set to make a comeback next year after a five-year absence. The event, which is Europe’s biggest motoring show, will return in a slimmed-down format that focuses on putting the car at the center of the show.
The Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) has not been held since 2019 due to the pandemic and uncertainties in the global economy. However, the organizers are confident that the 2024 edition will go ahead as planned from 25 February to 3 March.
Sandro Mesquita, the boss of GIMS, stated that there is no doubt that the show will take place next year. He also emphasized that the show will prioritize the car and will not be a mobility show. While other motor shows have shifted their focus towards mobility solutions and electric vehicles, Geneva intends to remain true to its roots as a motor show.
Mesquita believes that there is still a place for the Geneva Motor Show in Europe. He mentioned attending other motor shows in Paris and Munich and noted that Geneva has a unique atmosphere. While the show will welcome elements of the ecosystem around cars, such as charging infrastructure, the main focus will be on showcasing the latest cars and automotive technologies.
However, Mesquita did acknowledge that the show will be smaller than in previous years. After a five-year break, it will take time to restart the engine and attract exhibitors. The organizers are working to ensure a good quality of exhibitors and are revamping the exhibition center to decrease costs and offer a better return on investment for exhibitors.
One of the changes includes offering manufacturers the option to choose between custom stands or “plug-and-play booths.” These plug-and-play booths come in four different sizes and can be rented by exhibitors who can then personalize them with their corporate identity. This approach provides flexibility for manufacturers at various price points while still allowing them to highlight their products effectively.
Mesquita emphasized that the product is the hero of the show, and the organizers want to give manufacturers the best platform to showcase their vehicles. While the show may be smaller in scale, the focus will be on quality rather than quantity.
The return of the Geneva Motor Show is highly anticipated by car enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. It provides an opportunity for automakers to showcase their latest models, technologies, and innovations. The show has a long history of unveiling groundbreaking cars and setting trends in the automotive industry.
With the automotive industry undergoing significant changes, including the shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles, the Geneva Motor Show will play a crucial role in highlighting these advancements. It will be an opportunity for manufacturers to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and the future of mobility.
In conclusion, the Geneva Motor Show is set to return next year with a renewed focus on putting the car at the center of the show. While it may be smaller in scale, the organizers are determined to provide a platform for manufacturers to showcase their products effectively. The show will continue to prioritize the car and its latest technologies, ensuring that it remains a significant event in the automotive calendar.