Frankfurt auto show aims to pull away from crisis
Monday, 14 September 2009
FRANKFURT, Sept 13, 2009 (AFP): The Frankfurt motor show, known as the IAA and which takes place from September 17-27, aims to make consumers forget the auto sector crisis with a wave of new models, in particular electric ones.
"The IAA 2009 is being held in the right place at the right time," said Matthias Wissmann, president of the VDA auto federation that organises the show.
He added that the worst of the crisis had passed and the fair would celebrate with a "fireworks show of innovations."
The 63rd edition of the IAA, which takes place every two years in alternation with a show in Paris, is a slimmed-down version of the precedent one however, with the number of exhibitors down by 30 per cent to 750 and several Asian brands deciding not to come.
Nissan, Honda, Mitsubishi and Daihatsu are staying home, while recovering US group General Motors will not display its Chevrolet brand but be present with the German unit Opel.
"The IAA 2009 is being held in the right place at the right time," said Matthias Wissmann, president of the VDA auto federation that organises the show.
He added that the worst of the crisis had passed and the fair would celebrate with a "fireworks show of innovations."
The 63rd edition of the IAA, which takes place every two years in alternation with a show in Paris, is a slimmed-down version of the precedent one however, with the number of exhibitors down by 30 per cent to 750 and several Asian brands deciding not to come.
Nissan, Honda, Mitsubishi and Daihatsu are staying home, while recovering US group General Motors will not display its Chevrolet brand but be present with the German unit Opel.