The Auto Expo was conceived in 1985 as a platform for the Indian automotive industry. The inaugural event was co-organized by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA). It was held from January 3–11, 1986 at Pragati Maidan, a convention and exhibition center in New Delhi.
The inaugural Auto Expo demonstrated the accomplishments of the country’s automotive industry and showed how it absorbed new technologies and adapted them to the Indian conditions and market. The nine-day show featured India’s leading car manufacturers and was attended by the then Prime Minister Rajiv Dandhi.
Although the first Auto Expo was a huge succeess, it took over six years to organize the next event. The second edition took place in December 1993 and the third one was held in February 1996. After that, it has been held biennially because the organizers felt that the Indian automotive industry was not big enough for an annual car show.
The Auto Expo started as an event geared towards the domestic market, but it has since become an international auto show featuring exhibitors from about 30 countries and drawing more than 1.5 million attendees. The event is accredited by the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA) as a major international auto show.
In 2014, the Auto Expo was divided into two events: the Motor Show held at India Expo Mart in Greater Noida and the Component Show held at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi. However, both events have a joint inauguration ceremony. The Motor Show focuses solely on vehicles, whereas the Component Show is dedicated to components, spare parts, accessories, equipment, etc. Both events feature exhibitors from around the world.
Auto Expo – The Motor Show offers an impressive selection of exhibits, including cars, MUVs/SUVs, special vehicles, three wheelers, two wheelers, concept vehicles, vintage cars, commercial vehicles, super cars and bikes, and more. Alongside vehicle manufacturers, its participants include automotive design and technology companies, engineering and IT companies, educational establishments, financial institutions, auto insurance companies, media, etc.
