Time to get revved up about vehicles
The 98th annual event is a testament to the love British Columbians have for their automobiles
The best attended consumer event in Western Canada pulls into the Vancouver Convention Centre West this week.
Tomorrow’s opening of the Vancouver International Auto Show marks the 98th anniversary of this great event and serves to underscore the immense strength of the auto industry in British Columbia. The province’s new car dealers employ almost 30,000 British Columbians directly and indirectly, and generate over $16 billion in economic activity in the province, a figure that includes $675 million in revenue for all three levels of government.
Drawing thousands of car lovers to the Vancouver Convention Centre each day, the auto show is a testament to the love British Columbians have for their cars and trucks. It’s also the premier showcase for the auto industry in our region, and this year will feature a record total of 20 regional, national or North American vehicle debuts, all part of the over 400 manufacturer and specialty vehicles on display. Showgoers will also be able to get up close to some of the rarest and most unique custom, vintage and concept vehicles in the world.
As one of the most highly anticipated auto events in the country, the Vancouver International Auto Show provides the most varied roster of vehicles to satisfy every auto lover’s taste.
With the Lower Mainland dubbed the “luxury car capital” of North America and with B.C.’s taste for all things electric, this year’s show offerings are sure to be more exciting than ever before. From electric vehicles test drives, sneak peeks of brand new manufacturing models, tricked-out customs and jaw-dropping supercars, the show offers the most amazing displays of automobiles year-after-year.
Given British Columbia’s love affair with the automobile, it’s no surprise that the sector is the second largest retail category in B.C. after food and beverage sales. Between 2010 and 2017, the number of new vehicles sold in the province increased by 51 per cent — from approximately 157,000 units to 237,000.
The British Columbia automotive market is one of the country’s most enthusiastic when it comes to green technology and electric vehicles (EVs) in particular. As a province, we lead the country in EV sales per capita. If you are interested in finding out more about one of these advanced technology vehicles, stop by the free Electric Vehicle Experience Test Drive presented by CEVforBC and Toyota Lexus Hybrid Ride & Drive and take new clean energy vehicles for a spin.
For many in British Columbia, the Vancouver International Auto Show is the must-see event for people of all ages; I hope to see you there.