Rev Up Your Engines: Inside Look at the Top US Car Exhibitions of the Year
For car enthusiasts and industry insiders, the annual lineup of US car exhibitions is nothing short of a pilgrimage. These events showcase the latest automotive innovations, groundbreaking automotive industry designs, and future trends that will shape the road ahead.
From Detroit's bustling show floors to Los Angeles's glitz and glamour, each exhibition offers a unique glimpse into the ever-evolving world of automobiles.
In this blog post, we’ll highlight the top US car exhibitions of the year, providing you with a guide to the must-see events where you can experience the cutting-edge of automotive technology and design. Whether you’re a casual fan or a dedicated gearhead, these premier car exhibitions are the ultimate destination for anyone passionate about vehicles.
North American International Auto Show - NAIAS
January - Detroit, Michigan
The North American International Auto Show, which takes place in Detroit, Michigan, in January, is amongst the largest auto shows in North America and is regarded as the foremost venue for car manufacturers to unveil new products.
The show begins with press preview days, industry preview days, and a charity preview event. The charity preview raises money for local children’s charities. In 2004 and 2005, the charity preview attracted 17,500 people at $400 a ticket and raised $7 million in total. Over 800,000 people attended during the days the show was open to the general public in 2018, and it’s estimated that the show generates revenue of over $500 million for the local economy.
AAPEX - Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo
November - Las Vegas, Nevada
The Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo is a premier event where aftermarket professionals come together to drive progress and innovation in the industry. It generally takes place at the beginning of November, at The Venetian Expo and Caesar’s Forum in Las Vegas. AAPEX features over 2,500 exhibitors, engaging keynote speakers, and an exciting array of products and technologies.
It’s a must-attend event for anyone in the aftermarket sector. Attendees can explore new products, receive training, and network with industry peers.
SEMA Show
October/November - Las Vegas, Nevada
The SEMA Show is a trade-only event organized by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). It is a premier trade show for the automotive specialty-equipment industry and is geared toward helping small businesses thrive and succeed. The show is open to qualified members of the automotive industry, including buyers and sellers of automotive parts, vehicle manufacturers, aftermarket parts companies, and media outlets.
The SEMA Show has been known to attract over 150,000 members of the automotive industry. It occupies over a million square feet within the Las Vegas Convention Center and is packed with 3,000+ new products, 1,500+ feature vehicles, 2,400+ exhibiting companies, and more than 3,000 members of the media.
Brake Colloquium & Exhibition - SAE
November - San Antonio, TX
The Brake Colloquium & Exhibition is an annual event hosted by SAE International. It serves as a gateway to the forefront of braking technology and innovation. With a rich history spanning over four decades, this gathering brings together the brightest minds in the braking industry.
Engineers, researchers, and industry professionals explore critical topics related to braking systems, safety, and emerging technologies. The event covers a dual-track program focusing on the latest strategies and technologies employed for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Automated Vehicle Safety (AVS) in both internal combustion engines and electric propulsion vehicles.
This exhibition is a platform where ideas are cultivated, partnerships thrive, and the future of braking technology is explored.
Central Florida International AutoShow
November - Orange County Convention Center
The Central Fl.orida International AutoShow is an annual event held in Orlando, Florida, where the latest vehicles from various brands are showcased under one roof. Visitors can explore hundreds of new car models, including car reveals from Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, Jeep, Ram, and Toyota.
Whether you’re in the market for a new vehicle, interested in cutting-edge in-car technology, or simply love cars, the AutoShow is the place to be. Attendees can take test drives, interact with product experts, and experience virtual drives.
The event typically takes place at the Orange County Convention Center, with the next scheduled event planned for November 14-17, 2024. In previous years, it featured luxury cars, muscle cars, hybrids, electric vehicles, and 2024 model vehicles.
AASP/NJ - NORTHEAST Automotive Services Show
March - Meadowlands Exposition Center, Secaucus NJ
The AASP/NJ NORTHEAST Automotive Services Show is an event tailored specifically for professionals in the automotive repair industry. It serves as a premier platform for the demonstration of new products and technologies, allowing companies to showcase their unique offerings and latest improvements.
In addition, the show facilitates interactive discussions on the industry’s pressing challenges, thus helping to generate robust, resolution-oriented dialogue.
American Towman Showplace - Tow Industry Week
May - South Point Hotel & Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV
The American Towman ShowPlace is the largest tow show in the western United States. Co-sponsored by TowIndustryWeek.com and American Towman Magazine, it brings together suppliers, educators, top trainers, and towing professionals from around the world.
The event features multiple conferences, special events, and exhibits from industry-leading suppliers.
Truckload Carriers Association Annual Convention
March - Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, Kissimmee
This annual convention is geared toward for-hire carriers representing dry van, refrigerated, flatbed, and intermodal container carriers, industry suppliers, and individuals involved with truckload-specific operations.
The 3½-day event provides face-to-face time for top industry executives to share ideas and develop new strategies for the future.
Philadephia International Auto Show
January - Pennsylvania Convention Center, Pennsylvania
The Philidelphia Auto Show, also known as the Philadelphia International Auto Show, is an annual event held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. It’s a showcase of luxury, classic, and custom cars, featuring exotic vehicles, custom tricked-out rides, and test drives.
The show, organized by the Auto Dealers Association of Greater Philadelphia, has been running since 1902. It’s a must-visit for car enthusiasts and draws hundreds of thousands of attendees, making a significant economic impact on the city and state. Additionally, the show highlights employment opportunities within the retail automotive industry and philanthropic efforts by its 190 dealer members.
Washington Auto Show
January - Walter E Washington Convention Center, Washington DC
The Washington Auto Show is a 10-day public event held annually at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC. Taking place every winter, it’s one of the most popular automotive events on the East Coast and the largest show of its kind in the city.
You’ll find over 700 car models from more than 40 manufacturers. The show aims to introduce the latest achievements in motor technology, featuring futuristic cars with cutting-edge designs alongside an impressive collection of historic vehicles.
National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Convention & Expo
February - Las Vegas Convention Center
The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Convention & Expo is a significant event for franchised new car dealerships. It serves as a marketplace for products, services, and technologies related to the automotive industry.
Highlights of the event include keynote speakers, educational workshops, dealer/franchise meetings, networking events, comprehensive expo showcasing dealership products and services.
The NADA sport began in 1917 when 30 auto dealers traveled to the nation’s capital to convince Congress not to impose a luxury tax on the automobile. They successfully argued that the automobile is a necessity of American life, not a luxury. From that experience, NADA was born. Today, NADA represents roughly 16,100 new-car and -truck dealers, with 32,000 franchises, both domestic and international.
Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS)
March - Louisville, Kentucky
The Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) is the largest annual trade show dedicated to the Heavy-Duty Trucking Industry. Held in Louisville, Kentucky, it provides a forum for face-to-face interaction between industry representatives and trucking professionals.
Attendees can explore new products through hands-on exhibits, learn from experts in seminars, and build valuable business relationships.
With over 75,000 attendees from the United States and abroad, MATS has been a must-see event since its founding in 1972.
Final Thoughts
Attending the top US car exhibitions of the year is a thrilling experience for anyone passionate about automobiles. These events offer a unique opportunity to witness the latest innovations, meet industry experts, and get up close with the future of automotive technology.
Whether you’re looking to be inspired by cutting-edge designs, learn about new advancements, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, these exhibitions are not to be missed.
Remember to plan your visit in advance, so you can make the most of everything these exciting events have to offer. And, if you find yourself inspired to purchase a new vehicle or transport a prized possession, SGT Auto Transport is here to help with reliable and efficient car shipping services.
