Geneva Motor Show returns in exciting new format

Published on 25 January, 2024

GIMS coming back with a bang

Overview

The Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) 2024 is set for a revamp when it returns this February 26 to March 3, for the first time since 2019. The event aims to enhance the overall value for both exhibitors and visitors.

According to Alexandre de Senarclens, President of the Comité permanent du Salon international de l’automobile Foundation, the Geneva International Motor Show's resurgence after a four-year absence signifies the adoption of an innovative format. The organizers express a commitment to a dynamic rebuilding journey with the ambition of achieving consistent growth in subsequent years.

In contrast to the conventional model of motor shows, where brands typically take the lead in storytelling and content creation, GIMS 2024 emphasizes a closer collaboration between exhibitors and the organizing body. The new format seeks to provide immersive experiences in conjunction with the participating brands, aligning with the overarching theme of Auto.Future.Now. This theme is showcased across four thematic areas: Adrenaline Zone, Design District, Mobility Lab, and Next World.

The Adrenaline Zone is dedicated to high-performance vehicles, limited editions, bespoke creations, and motorsport. The Design District offers a curated space celebrating automotive design, featuring "Learn to Sketch with Frank" masterclasses by automotive design legend Frank Stephenson. Mobility Lab serves as an innovation park for mobility providers to showcase their latest breakthroughs, while Next World, in collaboration with Polyphony Digital, provides a sim-racing experience.

The Classics Gallery, themed "100 years of icons," commemorates GIMS’ 100th anniversary, featuring 35 iconic cars that have left a lasting impact on automotive history.

Media Day on February 26 will commence with the Car of the Year 2024 award ceremony, celebrating its 60th anniversary. Following this, exhibitors will hold press conferences, and 15 world and European premieres of new vehicles are anticipated.

VIP Day on February 27 will host the Auto.Future.Now Forum, featuring discussions led by leaders in automotive, technology, and design on topics such as electromobility, design evolution, autonomous driving, and sustainability.

Sandro Mesquita, CEO of the Geneva International Motor Show, underscores that GIMS 2024 represents a departure from traditional motor shows, focusing on collaboration, unique exhibitor contributions, immersive experiences, and highly anticipated world premieres.

Sinead McCann

Sinéad is our resident car tester who has the unenviable (-ok, slightly enviable) task of reviewing all the latest new cars to hit the market. You can follow her on Twitter @smcani and on Instagram @whatshedrives