The US is home to numerous Auto Shows that take place all year round. Yet, the Chicago Auto Show stands out as the largest in the country. Since its establishment in 1901, the show has continued to attract car lovers from all walks of life. Here are 15 interesting facts about the show and why you should consider attending it the next time around.

Record Attendance

Nearly a million attendees attend the Chicago Auto Show, including car enthusiasts, industry professionals, families, and casual visitors. With over 1,000 exhibitors, ranging from major automakers to aftermarket suppliers, the event guarantees a diverse and comprehensive display of the latest in automotive technology and design.

Expansive Venue

To conveniently contain the massive number of attendees, event organizers use McCormick Place, the largest convention center in North America. Featuring over 2.6 million square feet of exhibition space, the venue allows for expansive displays, including large-scale exhibits, live demonstrations, and even indoor test tracks.

Crucial Platform for Industry Debuts

The Chicago Auto Show is one of the best places for automotive manufacturers to debut new models and concept cars. Automakers often choose this platform to introduce their latest innovations because the debuts are closely watched by the media, industry analysts, and consumers.

Extensive Public Engagement Opportunities

Unlike some industry-only events, the Chicago Auto Show is highly accessible to the general public. In addition to viewing the latest vehicles, visitors can participate in interactive experiences such as test drives, simulators, and virtual reality exhibits, which help deepen their connection to the industry.

Immersive Displays

Automakers can create elaborate setups at the event to showcase their vehicles’ capabilities. For example, Jeep often constructs an indoor off-road course where visitors can witness the ruggedness of Jeep models. Other brands might use augmented reality or advanced multimedia presentations for the same purpose.

Significant Economic Impact on Chicago

Beyond the exhibitions, the show is also a major economic driver for the city. The influx of visitors generates significant revenue for local hotels, restaurants, and retailers. Additionally, the show creates thousands of temporary jobs, from exhibit setup and breakdown crews to hospitality workers.

Showcasing Green Technologies and EVs

With the continued shift towards sustainability, the show has become a venue for showcasing electric vehicles (EVs) and green technologies. Automakers display their latest EV models and educate visitors about the benefits of electric driving, the latest charging infrastructure, and other eco-friendly innovations.

Spotlight on Concept Cars and Future Trends

An exciting aspect of the Chicago Auto Show is the unveiling of concept cars. These vehicles often provide a glimpse into the future of automotive design and technology. Concept cars displayed at the show range from sleek, futuristic sedans to groundbreaking autonomous vehicles.

Attracting Celebrity Appearances and Media Attention

The event often draws high-profile celebrities, including actors, athletes, and well-known automotive personalities. Their presence generates additional media buzz and attracts even more visitors. For instance, in 2012, Toyota hosted some past and present members of the Chicago Bears football team.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Visitors, irrespective of age, enjoy a wide range of family-friendly activities. These include Interactive exhibits that teach kids about automotive technology and hands-on experiences like climbing into the driver’s seat of a new car. Special attractions for children include remote-control car races, driving simulators, and celebrity meet-and-greets.

Comprehensive Media Coverage

Journalists worldwide also attend the events and report on the latest automotive trends and debuts. This coverage spans print, television, online, and social media, ensuring that the news from the show reaches a global audience. The heavy media presence also helps automakers communicate directly with consumers.

Awards and Recognitions

Awards and recognitions are determined by public vote. Each highlights the most popular and innovative vehicles on display, offering manufacturers valuable consumer feedback. Also, winning an award at the show is a significant industry achievement because it reflects strong consumer interest and approval.

Economic Indicator

Attendance metrics from the event, like the number of exhibitors, types of cars showcased, and level of consumer interest, provide insights into the industry’s health and direction. For example, a strong focus on electric vehicles might indicate a broader industry shift towards sustainable transportation.

Charity Events

The show is also notable for its philanthropic efforts, particularly the First Look for Charity event, which takes place the night before the show begins. This black-tie gala raises millions of dollars for Chicago-area charities, with proceeds benefiting organizations focused on children, education, and health care.

Future Prospects

Evolutions in the automotive industry also reflect on the Chicago Auto Show. The event is expected to continue adapting to feature the rise of autonomous vehicles, advanced driver-assistance systems, and new forms of mobility. Its ability to adapt will determine its continued relevance in the automotive calendar.