Auto Expo 2022 Postponed Citing Uncertainty Over COVID-19 Third Wave: SIAM

The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) has announced postponement of Auto Expo 2022 citing concerns and uncertainty due to the anticipated third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The industry body has taken this decision after consulting automakers who are on the same page, given the fact that the biennial motor show is one of the largest Business to consumer (B2C) events and a mass gathering is expected, increasing the risk of virus spread. The Auto Expo was scheduled between February 2 and February 9 and just like every edition, lakhs of footfalls were expected. Just to give you and idea, over six lakh footfalls were recorded consecutively in the last three editions of the Auto Expo. SIAM is yet to decide on a new date to conduct the auto show and it will be decided at a later date.

A statement issues by the industry body said, "Auto Expo - The Motor Show 2022 is currently scheduled from 2nd - 9th February 2022 at India Expo Mart in Greater Noida. Safety of Exhibitors, Visitors and all stakeholders involved and present at the Expo is the topmost priority for SIAM. It is in this context that the Indian Automobile Industry and SIAM recognises the inherent risks in organising the Auto Expo due to the on-going Covid-19 Pandemic and the apprehensions of a possible 3rd Wave. There is uncertainty around how COVID-19 would develop in the coming months and at the same time organising Auto Expo would need a lead time of preferably a year. Also Auto Expo is like a festival of celebration, for the Indian Automobile Industry and we look forward to receiving maximum people with no fear of spread of infection. The magnitude of the risk of spread of infection is extremely high in a B2C show like Auto Expo which is visited by large crowds and maintaining social distancing would be difficult. It has therefore been decided to postpone the Auto Expo - The Motor Show for now. The exact date for the next edition of Auto Expo - The Motor Show would be finalised later this year keeping in view the Covid situation and in alignment with the OICA Calendar of global Auto shows."

The Auto Expo 2020 too concluded just a month before India reported the first COVID case and there were speculations whether SIAM will go with the event or not. Thankfully, the even happened and no COVID cases were recorded from the event, but few participants couldn't participate as positive cases were recorded in their country. Then, the industry overall has been witnessing dwindling sales and revenue as both took a hit from the lockdown. So the auto sector is also facing a financial crunch and organising an event as big as the Auto Expo is a challenge, given the scenario.