Outdoor ‘Motor Bella’ Event to Replace 2021 NAIAS
The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) has announced it will not hold its 2021 auto show as planned. Instead, show officials revealed a “bridge to the future” with an auto-centric event called Motor Bella.
The new event will feature next-generation mobility and vehicle debuts to media, show-goers and automotive enthusiasts while also addressing continued COVID-19 concerns about indoor events.
Motor Bella will be held from Sept. 21-26, 2021, at the M1 Concourse in Pontiac, Michigan. Centrally located in the metro Detroit area, M1 Concourse, often referred to as an “87-acre playground for auto enthusiasts,” enables exhibitors to showcase key vehicles and technologies in an outdoor setting.
Plans call for 1.6 million square feet of dynamic vehicle and technology display space including terrain ideal for showcasing off-roading capabilities. M1 Concourse also offers a 1.5-mile hot track on the grounds for technology and vehicle demonstrations.
“The pandemic has caused changes in our society and world in ways not previously imagined, and we all should be looking for new and highly creative ways of doing business,” said Executive Director Rod Alberts. “This new event captures that creative spirit. It will provide new mobility experiences and increasingly innovative approaches to tapping into the industry and its products.”
Alberts said attendees can expect a multi-sensory experience at the new event. “This all-outdoor venue, with adrenaline-pumping track activities and a full complement of OEM and technology exhibits, is going to offer the sights, sounds and even the smell of all that the new world of mobility has to offer.”
Dates for the 2021 Motor Bella are:
- Press Preview, Tues., Sept. 21
- AutoMobili-D, Tues., Sept. 21 through a half-day Thur., Sept. 23
- Industry Preview, Wed., Sept. 22 and a half-day Thur., Sept. 23
- Public Show, Thur., Sept. 23 through Sun., Sept. 26
A charity initiative, which will continue the NAIAS’ and Detroit Auto Dealers Association’s longstanding commitment to children and families in need, will also be part of the six-day Motor Bella.
