Last year, we took a closer look at European automotive shows for 2018. However, the automotive landscape has changed quite a bit since then. That’s we’ve decided to put together a new article, looking at the most important automotive shows of 2020.
One of the most important developments is the rise of electric vehicles. Inside EVs—a key new source for the electric vehicle industry—says that 2020 will be the breakthrough year for electric vehicles. As such, we’ll be focussing on shows that include electric vehicles in their programmes. Since we’re big Trucking Tuesday fans, we’ll also be looking at European truck shows in this article.
Biggest automotive shows of 2020
There are plenty of car shows to look forward to across Europe next year; electric vehicles have been a part of this scene for some time.
Geneva International Motor Show–Gim Swiss
March
The Geneva International Motor Show is a key event on any motor fan’s calendar. The show has been recognised by the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers as one of the top five motor shows in the world. It’s also the only one to be held in Europe every year, and is celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2020.
A highlight of this year’s event is the electric cars at the GIMS-Discovery dedicated track. Visitors and media representatives will be able to test drive a range of electric cars, and see the potential of these vehicles firsthand. Another bonus is the GIMS-Tech exhibition; this will showcase new technologies that will influence automobiles in the future. For media members, GIMS Media Day offers an intensive conference programme with additional information.
For further details, you can visit the official website here.
Sofia Motor Show Bulgaria
October
This show attracts major automotive names like Ford, Audi, BMW and Mitsubishi. 2020 will mark the 25th Sofia Motor Show; an impressive milestone for any exhibition.
Visitors to 2019’s show can enjoy demonstrations of many exciting new technologies. They’ll be able to learn how advances in electronics and propulsion will transform the way we travel. Since the show is entering exciting new areas, they’re looking for new exhibitors to appear at future shows.
Learn more about what the Sofia Motor Show has to offer by visiting the official homepage.
Salon—Brussels Motor Show
January
Running over ten days in January, the Brussels Motor Show provides a sales-friendly environment for over 500,000 visitors at a time. Each show represents a vast number of car and motorcycle brands, which will show off their latest products. It’s a must-see event for journalists, car fans and motorcycle enthusiasts.
Each Brussels Motor Show is organised by a non-profit association called FEBIAC. This group works proactively to create a sustainable business environment for both the motor vehicle and bicycle industries. Whether you’re coming as a visitor or exhibitor, the Brussels Motor Show has plenty to look forward to!
You can check out the official homepage for further details on this event.
Cenex LCV–Millbrook
September
Taking place in the UK, this event focuses on low-carbon vehicles. Its key features include a technology exhibition, an extensive seminar programme and facilitated networking with the low carbon community. Attendees can even try out a range of vehicles, including both commercially available and prototype models.
The event is run by Cenex, the UK’s first centre of excellence for low carbon and fuel cell technologies. It has assistance from a range of partners including the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, Innovate UK and the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership. Cenex prides itself on ensuring that many key figures attend the event, including major stakeholders, key manufacturers and government officials.
Learn more about what this event has to offer by visiting the website.
Truck shows of 2020
In addition to car shows, there are several events dedicated to trucking too. Since many of our staff are involved in event transport, these kinds of events are dear to our hearts.
Truckfest Peterborough and Edinburgh
May–October
This event has been Europe’s largest trucking festival since 1983. It consists of two national events—one in Peterborough during May, and one in Edinburgh during August. There are also six regional events across Wolsingham, Malvern, Kent, Shepton Malet, Knutsford and Newark.
The events are successful with industry figures, but they’ve also found a following amongst truckers and the general public. The events have grown in popularity over the last few years, and have plenty to offer visitors. Highlights include truck awards, appearances from top truck manufacturers, illuminated light truck parades and even stunt displays.
Get more details on this exciting show at the Truckfest website.
The City Trucks Festival La Pommeraye
August–September
This unusual festival brings together two unlikely bedfellows—trucking and music! It takes place in La Pommeraye—located in western France—and offers a weekend of music, food, workshops and showcases. Truck enthusiasts are the target audience, but anybody can attend.
Each festival boasts big trucks and a vibrant lineup of musical talent. Musicians at this year’s event include Charlie Winston, Caravan Palace and Che Sudaka. The lineup for 2020’s event has yet to be announced, but we expect a similarly exciting lineup in the future.
Get tickets for this event by visiting the official Festicket page.
IAA COMMERCIAL VEHICLES 2020 Hanover
September–October
This German trade show is the world’s leading event for transport, logistics and mobility. Taking place every two years and covering vans, buses and trucks, next year’s show will look at the future of commercial vehicles in more detail.
Key topics at 2020’s event include electrical mobility, environmental protection and logistics for the towns of the future. Visitors can see a unique cross section of the industry’s value chain, including vehicles, transport and logistics. They’ll also be able to see manufacturers and many different medium-sized suppliers.
The last IAA event brought together over 2,000 exhibitors from 48 countries, surpassing 2016’s figures in the process. The show also benefits from more floor space than before; the most recent show boasted a record 282,200 square metres!
Learn more about 2020’s event by heading to the official website.
The Show Must Go On
Europe has plenty of different shows for both trucking fans and professionals. Some take a more lighthearted approach to the topic, while others are more business-focussed. A common thread across most of them, though, is their emphasis on eco-friendly vehicles and technologies. These are only going to grow in popularity over the next few years.
Our experience as an event transport provider means we know about plenty of specialist conferences and niche events. We’ve risen to the unique challenges that different events pose. We’ve even won awards for our top customer service and eco-friendly road fleet.
If you’d like some help putting on an exhibition, our exhibition transport service is a great choice. We handle all the necessary documentation and paperwork if you want to travel abroad. Once you arrive, our drivers can support you throughout the exhibition and work as you need them to. We can even provide branding options for trailers, to give your exhibition more exposure.
Give us a call today on 0113 797 898 and speak to our team of experts. The next great exhibition is closer than you might think!