There is positive news for people looking to attend Canadian auto shows next year. The majority of the big ones have confirmed plans to go ahead, even though several automakers are not exhibiting, Canadian auto dealer has learned.
Organizers of the Montreal International Auto Show (January 20-29), the Canadian International AutoShow (February 17-26), the Quebec International Auto Show (March 7-12) and Edmonton Motor Show (April 12-16) confirmed plans to go ahead next year.
“It’s full speed ahead, absolutely full bore,” said CIAS General Manager Jason Campbell.
The Montreal Auto Show, presented by the Montreal Automobile Dealers Corporation (MADC) in collaboration with the Montreal Gazette, issued a media release on Thursday indicating nearly 20 brands are expected to have exhibits in a 200,000 square-foot space at the Palais des congrès. The show will feature a wide range of electric vehicles.
“To date, the show will feature between 70-75 per cent of the brands and models present in the top 10 sales in Quebec,” said Luis Pereira, MIAS Executive Director. “We are aware that the automotive industry is going through a period of upheaval, but we are confident to present a show that is worth the detour. The shortage and lack of inventory due to the global supply chain issues affects the entire industry and our show as well. Some manufacturers will not be present, but those will be with us are very excited to present their products to the enthusiasts.”
Eric Nicholl, Executive Director of the Vancouver International Auto Show, scheduled to celebrate its 100th edition March 22-26, said his organization has presented a summary to the board executive. He added the full board executive feels it should weigh in with some recommendations at a meeting on December 1. He said an announcement will be made on December 2.
“We have OEM support, obviously, we’ve lost a fair amount of critical mass with the other imports and Ford and Stellantis being big, big exclusions and also surprises,” said Nicholl. “We have looked at several scenarios on a go-forward plan.”
COVID-19 forced the cancellation of all Canadian auto shows the last two years, but there is a strong appetite among attendees to return in 2023.
The Calgary Automobile Dealers Association announced earlier this week the “difficult” decision to cancel the 2023 Calgary International Auto and Truck Show, March 8-12, after Ford, Stellantis, Honda and Toyota decided to pull out.
Stellantis is committed to the Toronto and Montreal shows.
Stellantis will be represented by its dealers at the Quebec show, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023. It will be a hybrid version consisting of OEMs and dealers.
“We are going forward and everything is positive for us,” said Charles Drouin, Managing Director of the Quebec show.
