Press Area

The 2013 Geneva International Motor Show will, as always, highlight the technological development of automobile manufacturers and suppliers. Beginning in 2009, it was the first international motor show to dedicate an entire section specifically devoted to the theme of vehicles powered by alternative energy systems and renewable fuel sources. With the enlargement of Hall 6, all of the alternative energy-powered vehicles will be exposed this year within the main exhibition halls of Palexpo. A brochure presenting all of those vehicles whose mode of propulsion will emit less than 100 grams of CO2 per kilometre will be available to show and help visitors to locate the different alternatives for driving a more “clean” vehicle. Indeed 10 % of the cars on display reply to these criteria.

With the increasing acknowledgement by manufacturers of the necessity to preserve the environment and cater to the growing market for less polluting vehicles, the automobile industry is now involved in a race to develop new alternative technologies that are ecologically and economically viable.  In only the past five years, the automobile industry has not only faced a major financial crisis, but has also been required to review and adapt their products to satisfy the social and environmental concerns of the motoring public.

The « Pavilion Vert » or Green Pavilion was developed to present to visitors the future of more economical and ecologically sound vehicles.  Following its successful growth over the years, including more than 10,000 road tests of « green » vehicles last year, the new technologies that were presented earlier are now maturing into production.

After the recent economic crises and the rise in petrol prices, these “Green” vehicles have found a growing market with consumers more concerned about the economic impact and the cost of utilizing their vehicles.  Mr. Maurice Turrettini, the President of the Geneva International Motor Show has said: “It is clearly evident that these (Green) vehicles are now completely integrated into the product offerings of the manufacturers and are interesting to all the visitors to the Motor Show and not just to those who are involved in ecology movements or those who are only technology-oriented!”

A brochure will be available describing all the vehicles exhibited on the stands which offer an alternative propulsion system, plus those traditional vehicles with emissions of CO2 at or below 100 grams per kilometre. This will help visitors to quickly locate the more energy efficient and economical vehicles amongst the more than 900 total vehicles on display in the 7 exhibition halls at Palexpo. 10 % of the vehicles on display will be available in this category, which is proof of the formidable innovative capacity and adaptive capabilities of today’s automobile industry.

The official website www.salon-auto.chwill be continuously updated prior to and during the Show.

Geneva, February 7th, 2013                                                            (approx. 2’950 characters included)