The Biggest Auto Shows in the World (Part 1)

1. Tokyo Motor Show
2. Chicago Auto Show
3. North American International Auto Show
4. Goodwood Festival of Speed
5. Monterey Car Week & Concours D'Elegance

The world loves auto shows. And so do car manufacturers. It's a chance for companies to show off their latest models and test out new ideas and show off various concept cars. This allows them to make a splash and to gain public feedback. In short, auto shows give auto companies an outlet and a chance to be creative and show off what they have. There are auto shows that take place around the globe, but here are some of the biggest.

Tokyo Motor Show

Japan is a hotbed of innovation, and the Tokyo Motor Show does not disappoint in this department. The Japanese are quite enthusiastic about cars, and it attracts people from the entire region. One of the interesting things about the Tokyo Motor Show is that it focuses more on concept cars instead of production cars that will be available for purchase. Thus, innovation is the name of the game here.

Chicago Auto Show

While rival Detroit's own auto show gets most of the attention among analysts and the media, the Chicago Auto Show actually outdraws it in terms of public attendance and size. Over 1,000 vehicles are presented each year. It takes place right by Lake Michigan at the McCormack Place Convention Complex and is notable for being considered the biggest auto show in all of North America.

North American International Auto Show

Commonly referred to as the Detroit Auto Show, the North American International Auto Show is the premiere show in the United States. It's the show where car manufacturers display the best that they have to offer, including concept cars. Not only is it covered feverishly by some media outlets, but it also hosts awards ceremonies for the best cars and trucks in North America. GM and Ford both have a large presence here, not surprisingly.

Goodwood Festival of Speed

This auto show is held in West Sussex, England. It has a more European flavor to it and takes place on the Goodwood estate, a place with a rich history in the British automobile industry. It attracts a sizable crowd of over 100,000 individuals and features the very latest models and even concept cars from British manufacturers and European manufacturers. It is a prestigious and classy affair. There is an emphasis here on racing cars, including Formula-1, as the name of the show itself suggests.

Monterey Car Week & Concours D'Elegance

Taking place for one week each summer in Pebble Beach, California, this event attracts car collectors from the around. It's an elegant event that features everything from displays of rare collectibles, expensive car auctions, cocktail hours, and contests. It's an auto show full of luxury vehicles, and if you're an auto enthusiast, especially one that values history, you owe it to yourself to attend. Even celebrities and some of the worlds wealthiest attend this event.

Make sure to check out Part 2!