Auto Expo 2012: the countdown begins for the highly anticipated event

The countdown for the 11th Auto Expo to be held in New Delhi between Jan 05 and 11, 2012 has begun. A massive surge of overseas participation, bigger contingents from Germany and China, besides a strong presence of Indian manufacturers have all resulted in a complete booking of space at the venue -16 halls, the 10 hangers and the outdoor space in total comprising 115000 square meters, Aligning with the theme of ‘Mobility for All”, Mr Rajive Kaul, Chairman, Steering committee, Auto Expo 2012, highlighted during his presentation.

International attention on the Indian automotive industry is perhaps at it’s peak today, with the developed markets either stagnant or declining. India is one of the few markets in the world which is growing and also has a vast growth potential in the years to come. Therefore, the world is looking at India to drive future global growth in the auto sector. Almost every foreign vehicle manufacturer has a presence in India, and companies who do not yet have a presence in India are expected to enter shortly. All eyes are currently on India, observed by Mr S. Sandilya, President SIAM. With the current lull in the market, the Auto Expo will aim to generate excitement and fulfill the aspirations of the Indian consumers with the Theme of “Mobility for All” and will also position India as a champion of Green Mobility, with a focus on alternative fuels, Electric and Hybrid Mobility etc, which is a national as well as a global imperative today, said Mr. Sandilya.

The Indian component industry too has in the last few years penetrated the global markets either through partnerships or acquisitions. Global component manufacturers like Visteon, Delphi, Magna or Continental either have a dedicated business here or are in tie ups with Indian component manufacturers. Tyre majors like Michelin, Bridgestone, Pirelli, Dunlop, Continental, as well Indian heavyweights like Apollo, JK, MRF etc too have carved their space in the Indian automotive industry, the Indian companies even gaining international foothold. Increased attention on India is a result of the tremendous growth shown by India, especially when global markets are reeling under severe economic downturns. Exhibitors from the auto component industry have a strong presence in Auto Expo 2012. Some of the major component manufacturers from Belarus, Canada, People’s Republic of China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Switzerland, Singapore, Thailand, Turkey and UAE  are participating in the 11th Auto Expo. Making it, a truly “India’s global Automotive show” Mentioned Mr Arvind Kapur, President ACMA, during his address.

The optimism for future prospects is truly reflected in the forthcoming auto exposition with the venue bursting at its seams with massive bookings. Auto Expo 2012 would witness launch of About 50 vehicles besides a display of world class vehicles and designs. India-specific products are also to be unveiled simultaneously for the first time. Component manufacturers will be announcing major innovations in their respective fields, especially their efforts in the area of green technology.  The auto show is jointly organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) along with the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) and the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA). It is the only show in India accredited by the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles (OICA). The International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers was founded in Paris in 1919 and its membership comprises 41 national trade associations around the world, including all major automobile manufacturing countries.

Around 1500 participants from 24 countries will be taking part in the show. Companies from Germany, People Republic of China, Canada, France, Italy, Japan, and the UK have confirmed their participation. Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII said during his address to the media. Auto Expo is rededicating the first day of the show (January 5th) as a Goodwill Day as in the previous edition. Although the first day is open exclusively for the media, it would also be open to those who are physically challenged. Apart from the innovative additions to the show, it would have its usual focused pavilions. These will include pavilions for accessories, audio, alternate fuel, gas technologies, design, IT, diesel, garage equipment and the popular ‘asli-naqli’ pavilion. Mr Vikram Kirloskar, Vice President, SIAM, delivered the concluding remarks and said that like in the past the 11th Auto Expo will also showcase future vehicles that will be launched in Indian market during the coming months and years and it is hoped that the the event will be a harbinger of revival of the industry in the new year.

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