Premier auto show started as import expo
In 1958, unable to participate in the local domestic auto show, forward-thinking Bay Area import auto dealers decided to create their own exposition.
Given the novelty and interest at the time in foreign made cars, the auto dealers’ idea proved to be a good one. For nearly two decades the Import Car Show, the precursor to what is now the International Auto Show, flourished and expanded.
As attitudes and the auto industry changed, owing to greater global cooperation in automotive production and the increased competitiveness in the world’s car markets, it was only natural that the Import Car Show broadened its scope to include the products of both the domestic and international manufacturers worldwide.
Thus the ever-expanding import show became truly international in 1982 when it moved into its new home at the Moscone Convention Center in downtown San Francisco.
From the first year, the show was a tremendous success and given the sudden increase in the varieties of makes and models available it was literally bursting at the seams.
In 1992, another hall was added to the Moscone Center expanding it to a total of 1.2 million square feet.
The additional space allowed exhibitors to construct more elaborate displays to showcase their vehicles and provided spectators a more spacious and inviting environment in which to view them.
It also allowed the San Francisco International Auto Show to grow into what it has become today — the premier auto show in northern California and the only one held regionally that lures the dazzling, high-tech displays from the world’s major manufacturers. It is the second largest auto show in the western U.S. and the No. 1 exhibition of any kind in northern California.
Now celebrating its 58th year, The San Francisco Chronicle International Auto Show contin- ues to grow. This year’s show will fill Moscone Center with exhibits in the north and south halls, the Gateway and Esplanade Ballrooms plus the north and south lobby and driveway areas.
Vehicles representing the work of 38 manufacturers for the year 2016 and beyond will all be on display including new introductions, exotic sports cars plus alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles.
In addition, there will be manufacturer ride and drives and special exhibits including the Academy of Art University Classic Car Collection, a PG&E exhibit on electric vehicles, Ford-F150 trailering demonstrations, the San Francisco Auto Salon, the Aston Martin and Ferrari Club of America displays, a display from Dominator Street Rods, the Gasoline Alley Race Car Hall, racing simulators and an auto accessory booth area.
The San Francisco Chronicle 58th Annual International Auto Show, is supported by the California New Car Dealers Association. It started Saturday and will run for nine days through Nov. 29 at the Moscone Convention Center and promises to be the most spectacular ever.