Vancouver Auto Show kicks off post-pandemic return

After four years — and a couple of false starts — the Vancouver International Auto Show is making its post-pandemic return this week.

Boasting an emphasis on electric vehicles, the show’s Executive Director Eric Nicholl says visitors can look forward to an experience from the moment they walk through the door.

“It’s exciting,” Nicholl said. “The whole city seems to be excited for the return of the auto show after four years.”

As soon as guests enter the Vancouver Convention Centre, Nicholl says they’ll be greeted by the “Maserati Grecale replica of the Barbie creation.”

Soon after the Barbie car, Nicholl says guests will happen upon the Ferrari Roma, Ferrari 296 and — for the first time ever — the Maserati MC20.

Nicholl says as guests continue to walk through the show they’ll notice the array of features that have been designed to appease every type of automotive enthusiast.

That includes a section of the show called “Horsepower Heaven,” where Nicholl says guests will find eight specially picked models from a range of eras.

There’s also a full eight unit racing simulation that’s free for the public to try.

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To satisfy people’s test drive itch, Nicholl says there will be a whopping 45 vehicles available from 15 different manufacturers — including a number of electric trucks.

“I think probably the most important element of the show as the entire industry shifts toward electrification is the ability to test drive full battery and hybrid vehicles,” Nicholl said.

“If there’s an inkling from consumers that want to learn more and have the ability to test drive an EV, this is the largest ever in show history.”

Nicholl says all the major manufacturers, like GM, Buick, Lexus, Nissan and Tesla will be there, as well as a number of super cars from manufacturers like Lamborghini, Bentley and Porsche.

“Every single element in this show is designed to touch a person who has a love for automotives in the province,” he said.

The show kicks off at noon on Wednesday until 9:30 p.m., and then runs from 10 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. Thursday to Sunday.

With files from John Ackermann.