Dubai: The four-day International Automobile Show opened in Sharjah on Wednesday.
The bi-annual show was inaugurated by Shaikh Abdullah Bin Salim Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah. Taking place at Expo Centre Sharjah, the event is showcasing a range of vehicles including convertibles, concept cars, sedans, motorbikes, water vehicles and commercial vehicles. It is also featuring accessories, audio and video systems, navigation systems and other car care products and services.
Brands that debuted at the show include Brabus, Porsche, Koenigsegg, Alfa Romeo, Dodge, SRT, Jeep, Lotus, W Motors, Peugeot, VKool, Chery, GAC and BAIC.
“The introduction of the much awaited 2015 Pajero will receive great interest among the Mitsubishi fans. The JAC S3 SUV is quite a hit with the young audience while the J4 is a clear stunner during the launch. Chery Arrizo 7’s debut will be a big buzz among motoring aficionados in the UAE and foresee great growth opportunities in both fleet as well as individual ownership categories,” Joe Rogan, Sales Director of Al Habtoor Motors, said in a statement.
“The show is being held against the backdrop of a thriving regional car market. Car sales have been on the rise in the UAE since the past several years and are likely see to high double-digit growth this year too. This has prompted all major car dealers to participate in the show and make the most of favourable market conditions,” Saif Mohammad Al Midfa, Expo Centre Sharjah CEO, said in a statement.
Competitions
New car sales in the UAE have increased by 20 per cent to 199,277 units in the first half of 2014. Full year sales are expected to be around 400,000 units. More than 360,000 vehicles were sold in the country last year, according to statement from Expo Centre Sharjah.
Visitors at the show can expect car audio and car modification competitions, a classic car display by the Sharjah Classic Car Museum & Club, which features 100 classic cars of different brands manufactured between 1917 and 1980.
Auto enthusiasts point out that the show will be a good platform for buyers to pick and choose, given that automakers and dealers are striving to differentiate themselves through technology offerings. With motorists these days spending more time in their vehicles, buyers are demanding in-vehicle technology in the form of connectivity, driver assist or safety features.
