A Complete History of Auto Expo: India’s Premier Automotive Event: from 1986 to 2025

The Auto Expo was conceived in 1985 and made its debut in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi in 1986. It demonstrated how the Indian automotive sector was embracing new technologies and encouraging domestic R&D to adapt these technologies for the harsh Indian circumstances, the nine-day show was a groundbreaking event and a window for technology transfers.The show continued to grow over the years, and by 2006, it was starting to see a lot of overseas involvement, new launches, concept cars, and trade discussions.

Its status as one of the most prestigious car shows in the world was solidified in 2008 when it received accreditation from the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles (OICA). Because it offers growth and a glimpse into the future, the Auto Expo is now highly anticipated by both trade and fans.

The International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers was founded in Paris in 1919. It is known as the “Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles” (OICA).

ORGANIZERS

1. ACMA

With more than 950 members, the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) is the leading association for the country’s automotive component manufacturing sector. 

2. CII

Through advising and consultative procedures, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) collaborates with industry, government, and civil society to establish and maintain an atmosphere that supports India’s growth.

3. SIAM

All of India’s largest auto and motor vehicle manufacturers are represented by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), the country’s highest authority.

SIAM focuses on initiatives that enhance the environment and guarantee the security and safety of drivers and the general public. 

Auto Expo, a highly regarded biennial auto expo that highlights industry trends, is organized by SIAM in collaboration with ACMA and CII.

History of Auto Expo

1986: First Auto Expo, Year of debut. Manufacturers of trucks and buses made their international rivals display Jeep-Car models.

1993: Second Auto Expo, A forum for discussion between the government, dealers, industry, and consumers. Seven nations participated under the theme “To Make The Future Happen.” The knowledge transfer and joint ventures persuaded component manufacturers.

1996: Third Auto Expo, EU-India Business Forum with new car launches from Daewoo, Hyundai, Ford, and Honda. Foreign players realized their market capabilities.

1998: 4th Auto Expo, Nearly 150,000 attendees every day, with more than 50 participants from abroad. Known as the largest auto show, it was announced to be held every two years. Modern sedans and little automobiles both won in the launch arenas.

2000: Over a thousand exhibitors took part in the 5th Auto Expo. The first Asian Two Wheeler Conference and the environment were the main topics of the Green Pavilion. More new cars were introduced than at prior expos.

2002: Road safety technology, road engineering, and enforcement were the main topics of the 6th Auto Expo’s road safety pavilion. Michael Schumacher’s Ferrari F2001 was the first Formula One vehicle to be on exhibit. SUVs were also launched.

2004: 840 Indian and 120 foreign businesses took part in the 7th Auto Expo. A lot of firms began setting up themed stalls and experience zones. The focus was on design, safety, and next-generation technologies.

2006: The 8th Auto Expo featured themed pavilions with an emphasis on unconventional fuels, two-wheelers, commercial cars, design, and styling. Vehicle simulators were installed for the first time. Some automakers choose to opt out for the first time.

2008: The theme of the 9th Auto Expo was “Mobility for All.” Diesel technology had their own specialized pavilion. Trend of introducing updated versions of cars that were currently in production.

2010: With over 2 million visitors, 72 product premieres, including 10 worldwide, the greatest international participation with 30 nations, and 2100 exhibitors, the 10th Auto Expo set a record. The exhibition came to represent India’s presence in the automobile sector.

2012: 11th Auto Expo, Approximately 1500 people from 23 nations attended, 50 cars were shown, including 10 worldwide and 20 two-wheeler premieres; Ferrari and Peugeot made their first appearances in India. The concept car movement gained popularity.

2014: The 12th Auto Expo was divided into two events, Auto Expo (The Motor Show) and Auto Expo (Components). 47 foreign manufactured with more than 105 stalls. Both Indian innovations and  concept models around the world were showcased. 

2016: The 13th Auto Expo, which was divided into two events, Auto Expo (Components) and Auto Expo (The Motor Show), was the largest automobile show in India and the second largest in the world. The public was shown concepts that were closer to production. Popularity of video shows and car reviews made the event a staple of auto enthusiasts all over the world. Entry to the event was made easier for the general public.

2018: EVs and concept SUVs dominated the 14th Auto Expo.Twelve startups took part. most launches on the day of opening. Numerous automakers gave their justifications for skipping the event, demonstration of armored vehicles.

2020: 15th Auto Expo, held at the India Expo Mart in Greater Noida from February 7–12, 2020. The theme of the event was to showcase the latest technologies and innovations in the auto industry, and to provide an insight into the changing automobile sector.

2023:16th Auto Expo in India took place from January 11–18, 2023 at the India Expo Mart in Greater Noida. The event featured a variety of vehicles, technologies, and concepts, and attracted a record-breaking 636,743 visitors

2024: 17th Auto expo,  held from February 1–3, 2024 at Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The expo featured vehicles of the future, electric vehicle battery and charging technologies, and more. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the event.

The Bharat Mobility Expo is set to return in January 2025, merging with the Auto Expo. Taking place from January 17 to 22 The theme for Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 is “Beyond Boundaries: Co-creating Future Automotive Value Chain.” This vision aims to foster collaboration and innovation across the automotive and mobility sector, emphasizing sustainable and cutting-edge technological advancements.

The Auto Expo has evolved into one of the most significant automotive exhibitions in the world since its inception in 1986. Initially a platform for introducing Indian automotive innovations and technologies, the event has steadily grown to showcase global automotive trends, cutting-edge technology, and major vehicle launches.