The recently concluded Paris Motor Show has some very interesting lessons for the upcoming "Delhi Motor Show" (formally Bharat Mobility Global Expo) just three months away. The automobile world, media and general public are unanimous about one thing – the motor show is back! Over the last decade, quite a few legacy shows have closed down or shifted (Geneva is now in Doha). Given the changing content and experience consumption behaviour of the newer generation(s), the traditional motor show was losing its sheen. Also, automakers started skipping them as costs went through the roof. Specialist shows like SEMA and Goodwood gained popularity. Also, the newer shows like Beijing, with state support, represented a thriving new market and consumer.
In this scenario, Paris 2026 is back with a bang. European automakers put up a shimmering display of fresh takes on personal mobility. Screens and LEDs dazzled. Gimmicks galore. It was almost like a specialist show of "restomods". Quadricycles created a flutter. Iconic brands and badges like the 205 and 2CV were brought back. There was a serious onslaught of the compact car. And we did see a fair share of Chinese brands. People debated on Jaguar versus Genesis. Some did question falling back on heritage versus showcasing the future. But it was truly festive once again. The crowds were back with a vengeance.
There are some strong and clear leads for the upcoming motor show in Delhi. While we always get crowds at our motor show, it has to focus on the qualitative aspect of what the world would expect in February 2027 at Bharat Mandapam in terms of global launches, new technologies and key trends in design and consumer experience. I still remember how the world converged onto Delhi in 2008 for the Tata Nano.
Our motor show must have a couple of global launches. At least the Indian automakers should plan their key product launches during the Auto Expo. The least that we can expect of our motor show is to gain global stature. Given the importance of the market, even a few global automakers could plan the same. At least one breakthrough technology needs to be showcased before the world. The entry-level two-wheeler and four-wheeler can be the Indian answer to global mobility solutions.
Paris has shown how an event almost written off can be revived through careful planning and a collective effort of the domestic industry. Our own automakers need to have the required level of respect for our global showcase and consumers. Displaying their existing fare is boring. The show ends up being only a picnic and not a pilgrimage for those who love all things automotive.
Sergius Barretto
Rishaad Mody
