The International Geneva Motor Show is an annual auto show held in March in the Swiss city of Geneva. The 86th edition will bring many novelties, so if you are planning to exhibit or visiting the show, to be held at Palexpo, don't miss our interview with the organisers and learn everything you need to know about the show and about the industry in Geneva.
Geneva International Motor Show is going to celebrate its 86th anniversary...! What makes the show different from other of its kind to maintain a trajectory like this?
The Geneva Motor Show belongs to the top five motor shows worldwide. The secret of its success is the combination of several ingredients: a neutral ground (Switzerland has no own car manufacturer), which means that all the exhibitors are given the same importance. The show is situated in the heart of Europe, holding 7 exhibition halls under the same roof and taking place every year in spring, i.e. with the start of the sales season.
What does the event suppose for the city of Geneva?
For the city and the state of Geneva the Motor Show is a very important event in its calendar; on one hand obviously for economic reasons (it is difficult to find a hotel room during the press days) but also for the fact that during these press days the city becomes a real get together of the worldwide car industry and its attached branches.
Who can attend the show, and who must do it?
Almost all CEOs of the big car manufacturers, but also the stars of design and technology as well as representatives of foreign authorities are present. The press days are then followed by the public days and here too, the event breaks records. With 700’000 visitors it is the biggest annual event in Switzerland and with its 50% visitors coming from over 90 countries – however, an important part comes from France – it is probably the most international Show.
Can you give some tips to those international exhibitors that are going to exhibit here for the first time? (some venue rules, customs, protocol...)
There is a kind of family spirit during the build-up of the Show. The organizers want to work for the hand by hand with its exhibitors in order to create the most beautiful show window. If there is a rule, it is the one not to be shy and ask all the questions you may have. You will find assistance on all management levels.
Can you highlight for us the novelties of this year's edition?
It is unfortunately too early to talk about this year’s novelties. Many premiers are still under embargo. However, over 60 press conferences are planned during the press days in order to unveil probably over a hundred new cars; from the concept to the series.
Tell us, at least, three reasons to visit Geneva International Motor Show 2016!
For the huge number of novelties, to discover trends and tendencies of car design, in order to admire the glitter of the car universe, because of the easy access (literally a 10 minutes’ walk from the airport and the railway station), for its human size (you can make it within one day), because Geneva is an exciting city, and much more….
Finally, give us some participation results from the last edition (visitors, exhibitors...)
- About 700'000 visits each year from over 90 countries
- Over 10’000 media representatives from all over the world
- About 200 exhibitors
- 900 models on display
- 106’000 m2 gross exhibition surface
- 7 exhibition halls
