After three years of pandemic-related cancellations, Canada’s auto show circuit is set to resume in-person shows in 2023. But it’s unclear how many automakers will exhibit amid inventory shortages and the growing popularity of direct business-to-consumer marketing events.
While some companies interviewed by Automotive News Canada are excited to return to large-scale events, others said they either will not be at Canadian auto shows in 2023 or have not yet decided whether to exhibit.
“My feeling is GM will be participating in the auto show circuit in 2023, but unfortunately, we will not be able to confirm before October or November,” said General Motors Canada spokesman Philippe-Andre Bisson.
The first event of the season is the Montreal International Auto Show Jan. 20-29, followed by the Canadian International AutoShow (CIAS) in Toronto, Feb 17-26.
Stellantis Canada spokeswoman LouAnn Gosselin said the company has yet to decide whether to exhibit at 2023 shows.
Toyota Canada spokesman Romaric Lartilleux also could not commit to a Toyota presence: “We need to confirm some details before being able to add anything on the topic.”
Volvo Car Canada spokesman Lucas Dias said the company is not participating in Canadian shows, “choosing instead to continue collaborating closely with our retailers and focusing on distinctive partnerships and experiences.”