2023 Vancouver International Auto Show cancelled

The Vancouver International Auto Show has joined the growing list of cancelled regional auto shows next year.

In a news release issued late Tuesday, the New Car Dealers Association of B.C. said “ongoing supply chain issues plaguing the automobile sector” have forced the decision to cancel the show which had been scheduled for March 22-26 at the Vancouver Convention Centre West.

“For the last several months, we have been working with vehicle manufacturers and other partners in anticipating of returning in-person to celebrate the 100^th edition of the traditional auto show in March,” said Blair Qualey, president and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association. “Unfortunately, ongoing global supply chain issues mean that a number of manufacturers and distributors are not in a position to commit to participating in many North American auto shows, including Vancouver.

He said that without the solid participation of manufacturers, “we are unable to produce the kind of quality show that both we and auto enthusiasts from across the province have come to expect.”

Meanwhile, the association is actively exploring other “meaningful in-person event options,” the release said.

Show manager Eric Nicholl said in a telephone interview that without a traditional auto show, “we are pivoting to a new regional format,” which will be detailed “in the coming weeks.”

Auto shows in Calgary and Ottawa also have been cancelled due to insufficient participation by automakers.