New Delhi: The renowned Auto Expo, India’s flagship motor show, is poised to experience a decline in prominence with the introduction of the Bharat Mobility Expo, scheduled for a three-day run starting February 1. This mega mobility event aims to converge 11 agencies representing diverse segments, including car manufacturers, components, tires, electric vehicles, construction, batteries, and electronics, onto a single platform.
While this year’s event has been swiftly organized, the focus has shifted to Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal’s proposal to extend the Mobility Show beyond Bharat Mandapam (the original venue of the Auto Expo, formerly known as Pragati Maidan). The minister suggested incorporating the recently completed Yashobhoomi in Dwarka and subsequently the Noida Expo Centre (the current Auto Expo venue). Although Goyal refrained from providing specific dates for the next edition, the Auto Expo has traditionally occurred every alternate year in January-February.
During a recent meeting, the minister candidly acknowledged industry pushback when he initially proposed the mega mobility show. This has sparked discussions within the industry about the potential continuation of this format in the coming years. As of now, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), organizers of the Auto Expo, is adhering to its existing plan. A SIAM functionary remarked, “Let this event (Bharat Mobility) conclude” in response to queries about potential changes.
Despite SIAM’s efforts to position Bharat Mobility as a primary auto show, several key players opted out of the event in 2023, including Mahindra & Mahindra, Honda, Mercedes, BMW, VW, Skoda, Hero Honda, and Bajaj Auto.
In contrast, Minister Goyal has encouraged the entire mobility sector to participate in the Bharat Mobility Expo. This move aligns with India’s broader strategy to position itself as an attractive MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination. The country has several shows lined up until March, spanning diverse sectors such as textiles, gems and jewelry, and food.
The Bharat Mobility Expo is expected to feature 600 exhibitors, including over 50 from overseas, in its upcoming edition.
