Bologna Auto Show: Less Cars But More Things to See

It's no secret that the current economic chaos slashed automakers' budgets and not only affected their business but also cut the money used for exhibiting cars at auto shows around the world. The Bologna Auto Show is just an example, as organizers confirmed there will be less cars at the event compared to the previous years. But they still have an ace up their sleeve.

According to Autonews, organizers are aiming to make the show a bit more attractive by showcasing many other things that cars, including new systems related to environment and safety. In order to attract more automakers and at the same time reduce their costs, they are offering free floor space, but their stands will be smaller in size compared to the ones at the previous shows.

"It doesn't makes sense to display the entire range as one would see in a dealership. Therefore, we are offering stands of between 200 and 700 square meters (about 2,150 to 7,535 square feet) to display the newest products or core models for the Italian market," said Maria Rira Tattini, communication director of Promotor International, which is organizing the show.

Bologna Auto Show attracted around 1 million visitors every year with large automakers showcasing cars on an area of between 5,000 to 6,000 square meters. But this year, things will be a it different. Automakers participating in the event will exhibit their models only on a part of the floor, while the remaining will be used for demonstrating their latest innovations, such as the ones mentioned above.

"The thematic areas are spaces where automakers and suppliers can have events, presentations and shows that allow them to try new ways to communicate with the visitors," Tattini said.

The previous edition of the show held in 2008 occupied a total area of 140,000 square meters indoor and 90,000 sqm outdoor. No less than 320 exhibitors attended the conference, showcasing 108 premieres, according to the official website of the show.