The Geneva Motor Show, which is one of the most important events for the launch of new cars, has turned down a loan from the Canton of Geneva, jeopardising next year’s edition.
In March, the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) was the first major automotive event to be cancelled as a result of the coronavirus. It was cancelled only a few days before it was due to open, leaving the organisers with a major financial headache.
As a result, the GIMS Foundation, which organises the event, requested a 16.8 million Franc (£14.1 million) loan from the Geneva State Council.
This loan was granted, however the GIMS Foundation found the terms unacceptable, saying they “aim to completely outsource the show including its conceptualisation to Palexpo SA”, the venue where the show is normally held.
The organisers are therefore planning for the next edition not to be held until 2022.
Even then, many are questioning whether there is still a need for traditional motor shows. Buyers can easily research car purchases online, while manufacturers are able announce their new models as and when they please, without having to share the limelight with their rivals.
