Geneva International Motor Show 2019

About the Event

The Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) takes place in a changing automotive world. The 89th running of the event sees manufacturers faced with mounting challenges as political and environmental concerns hamper carmakers and force them into developmental avenues they may not have considered before.

Gone are the days of lavish stands, car catwalks and stage shows, with celebrities announcing the latest models. Gone too are the extravagant concept vehicles. Instead, more accessible displays allow visitors to get closer to the action, while any concept on show has some production value and is more likely to make it to roads around the continent in the coming years.

GIMS 2019 is all about the future of mobility. The latest petrol and diesel vehicles that were launched could almost be lost in the sea of interest in electric (EV) and hybrid vehicles. These are the future of the automotive industry, allowing carmakers to meet strict emissions targets levied by the European Commission, while they lament the decline in diesel sales.

While many of these EVs have already been publicised and launched and are simply at the show to remind people of their presence others are making their debut. Audi’s e-tron, Daimler’s EQC and Porsche’s Taycan have already seen the glow of show hall lighting but whereas Honda’s e prototype was simply a concept before, the Japanese company is now displaying a ′90% production ready’ version that remains largely true to the previous iteration. Peugeot is displaying its new 208 line-up, with an EV variant included, and Polestar, spun-out of Volvo (who are not present as they prepare for their electrified-only future), brought the Polestar 2 for its first public outing days after its online launch.

Daimler brought five world premieres to Geneva. Its Mercedes-Benz CLA shooting brake and facelifted GLC were placed centre stage alongside the EQV concept people mover.

Alfa Romeo launched a surprise on the unsuspecting press in Switzerland. The Italian manufacturer pulled the covers back on its first step into the world of electrification with the Tonale, an SUV concept that makes use of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. Taking centre stage around various iterations of Giulia and Stelvio models and last year’s Sauber F1 car painted in 2019 livery (the team now competes as Alfa Romeo Racing), the Tonale attracted significant attention throughout the day.

Most liked pictures of the event