It's The LA Auto Show, Nov 22 - Dec 1, 2024
LA Auto Show Organizers Say They Are Luring Back Brands MIA Last Year
Last year’s LA Auto Show was notable for the brands that were on display as well as the brands that weren’t. Some pulled out at the eleventh hour, like Stellantis, which was scheduled to debut its production Fiat 500e to North America.
By Roy Nakano
Sun, Oct 13, 2024 06:22 PM PST
Featured Image: With all the brands missing in action during last year’s LA Auto Show, Tesla (who rarely shows at any auto shows) was well-represented in the ride-and-drive segment.
All images by Roy Nakano if not noted otherwise.
This year, the LA Auto Show organizers say they are determined to reverse that trend, announcing some key brand returns, as well as some newcomers to the LA Convention Center event.
"We are thrilled to welcome these world-class, marquee brands to this year's show," said LA Auto Show president and chief operating officer, Terri Toennies. "Their participation reaffirms the pivotal role of the LA Auto Show in the automotive world, as well as the manufacturers' confidence in our ability to deliver unmatched opportunities for connecting with existing and prospective customers." Among the brands:
Porsche
This brand was a surprise no-show last year. For years, Porsche was a fixture at the LA Auto Show’s Petree Hall, even when they were no shows elsewhere in North American auto shows. This year, the organizers are taking no chances and have harnessed the support of Porsche Downtown LA, a member of the Lithia Motors family, to guarantee an exhibit. The big feature: An all-new Macan Electric as well as an all-new (or as new as can be expected) 911.
Grenadier
The inaugural appearance of INEOS Automotive, bringing the ultra-off-road Grenadier and Grenadier Quartermaster to the show floor. LA Auto Show organizers boast that this is the first time ever for the Grenadier appearance at a car show.
Rivian
Rivian was another no-show last year. In addition to their return this year, the LA Auto Show promises test drive opportunities on the show's electric track. The organizers are especially pleased with the return of Rivian and their selection of vehicles for attendees to see, feel and drive first-hand.
Old Faithfuls
At this relatively early stage in the game, the organizers received commitments from the following brands for major exhibits at the LA Auto Show: Cadillac, GMC, Buick, VinFast, Volkswagen, Ford, and Nissan.
The organizers promise more confirmations in the coming weeks. The entire floor space of the Los Angeles Convention Center has been reserved for the show. Last year, when some brands cancelled their appearances, the organizers used the space to expand the indoor ride and drive courses. It was a silver lining to the no show cloud.
Ride and Drives
Speaking of which, test ride and drive experiences will be available from Cadillac, Subaru, Volkswagen, Chevrolet, Kia, and Nissan. The organizer promises dozens more to be announced in the coming weeks. As before, attendees will be able to ride-along or get behind the wheel of an array of vehicles on a variety of courses in and around the Los Angeles Convention Center, including the show’s EV and hybrid outdoor test track, Electric Avenue powered by Ampure, the official EV charging partner of the 2024 LA Auto Show.
Overland Outpost
The LA Auto Show announced the return of its Overland Outpost, where attendees can interact with brands from the world of overlanding and off-road vehicles. "We are thrilled to welcome these world-class, marquee brands to this year's show," said the LA Auto Show’s Terri Toennies. "Their participation reaffirms the pivotal role of the LA Auto Show in the automotive world, as well as the manufacturers' confidence in our ability to deliver unmatched opportunities for connecting with existing and prospective customers."
SIM Racing
The LA Auto Show, LANFest, and Tryhard Consulting are excited to present simulated racing activities (AKA SIM racing) at this year’s show. Included will be state-of-the-art racing rigs, e-sports competitions, and a virtual reality dirt rally, as well as free game play for attendees featuring famous titles such as Mario KartTM and Need for SpeedTM. The show will also host high school and collegiate Rocket League matches, celebrity/influencer games, mini-tournaments, a PC build workshop, and other family-friendly and competitive experiences.
The Aftermarket Garage
In a tradition going back as far as we can remember, the Aftermarket Garage is back in Kentia Hall, the floor below the South Hall. There, visitors can immerse themselves in an array of custom cars, trucks, and motorcycles. This year’s line-up of attractions include South Bay Pop Ups Lowrider & Motorcycle Collective, Al & Ed’s Exclusive, SS Motorsports, World Famous 4 x 4, Yamaha, and Black Classics Car Club. With more than 60 lowriders on display, as well as a host of ultra-luxurious exotics, supercars, and premium sports cars, the Aftermarket Garage has become an integral part of the LA Auto Show.
Food Trucks
“As a staple of the Los Angeles culinary scene, food trucks reflect the diversity and creativity of communities throughout the city. This year’s LA Auto Show will again celebrate this feature of life in LA with a wide variety of trucks on site,” says Toennis. "We will announce more details about automaker debuts, individual activations, and test drives soon, as well as some very special new exhibits."
About the Los Angeles Auto Show
Founded in 1907, the 2024 edition of the Los Angeles Auto Show opens to the public November 22-December 1. The show runs for 10 full days, including Thanksgiving Day. It is a highly recommended event for prospective car buyers, and arguably the most important show of the year for Southland car enthusiasts. Held at the Los Angeles Convention Center, the LA Auto Show traditionally contributes several hundred million dollars to the city's economy, stimulates the local job market, and is the number one revenue generator for the Convention Center.
For more information on the show, go to the LA Auto Show website.
About The Author
Roy Nakano gave birth to LACar in the late '90s, having previously delivered LA Audio File back in the '80s. Aside from the occasional review, Roy likes to stray off the beaten automotive path: "Six Degrees of Reparations" reflected on the regretful ethical paths taken by car companies throughout history. "Traveling Through the Past and Present of the Green Book" looked at businesses that took a stand against racism and the man that wrote the book on where to find them. "Best Cars to Drive in Rush Hour Traffic" was an LACar guide published in the pre-GPS era. "In Search of the First Datsun 510 Tuner" looked at one of the milestones in the origin of import tuners.
