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Auto Show Closes Successful 10-Day Run
The 43rd annual Miami International Auto Show ended its 10-day run on Sunday, November 17 with an 8 percent increase in paid attendance from the previous year.
Considered among America's top five Auto Shows, the Miami show presented several hundred new cars, crossovers and SUV's from more than 40 major manufacturers.
"The response from attendees to the new autos and exhibits was overwhelmingly positive," said Richard Baker, show manager. "The auto manufacturers really stepped up their displays this year with many interactive activities to both engage our customers and entertain them."
Numerous manufacturers including Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, Chrysler, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Kia, Scion, Mazda and Toyota participated in Ride & Drive events that put attendees behind the wheel for a spin around the streets of Miami Beach.
The popular Camp Jeep exhibit celebrated its 1-millionth visitor during the show and offered cup cakes to those waiting to test ride the unique, interactive, off-road experience.
Two exhibits which debuted last year have quickly become crowd favorites. Havana Classics featured 12 autos reminiscent of Cuba of yesteryear including a 1936 Ford Cabriolet originally owned by Academy Award actress Katharine Hepburn and Topless in Miami showcased convertible versions of the Porsche 911 4S Carrera Cabriolet, Chrysler 200, Fiat Abarth, and Nissan 370 Z, to name a few.
Show organizers engaged in live conversations throughout each day of the show – tweeting about what and who to check out next while displaying Instagram feeds of show-goers' favorite vehicles. Making special appearances at this year's show were former Miami Heat star Tim Hardaway and NASCAR's Kenny Wallace.
The social media campaign also gave way to a daily People's Choice Award, honoring the vehicle with the most mentions on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram each day. Among the winners were the 2014 Maserati Ghibli sedan, Lamborghini Aventador and Corvette Stingray.
"We're seeing firsthand the incredible impact social media is having on the auto industry," said John Kiskinis, auto show media spokesperson. "Our show is capturing a youthful, enthusiastic new audience of car buyers looking for entertainment. And we're happy to provide it with our new exhibits and contests."
The Miami International Show is produced by the South Florida Automobile Dealers Association, a four-county group of 190 new car dealers from The Keys to the Palm Beaches. The 44th edition of the Miami International Auto Show will be held November 7-16, 2014.