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Honestly, I’m a bike and bus person but this year I’m in the market for a mountain car. What better way to research the availability and feasibility of electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid options with 4-wheel / All Wheel drive functionality than at one of the largest motor shows in the world (March 9-19).

Highlights of the Geneva Motor Show

  • The Geneva motor show is recognized as neutral territory for automakers because, unlike the four other major auto shows in Frankfurt, Tokyo, Detroit, and Paris, Geneva does not have an auto industry of its own.
  • Every year the number of cars on display that run on alternative energy increases. This year more than 60 cars will be present under the motor show’s category of Energy Efficient Cars. Download the CO2auPlancher app, “collect” energy efficient, Category A cars (those below 95g/kg CO2 output) and win yourself a Ford Mondeo Hybrid. Today there are over 350 Category A models available in petrol, fossil fuel and electric options.
  • Premiers and concept cars from car-makers like McLaren, Ferrari, and Lamborghini are always a big draw at the motor show, but if you’re looking to purchase a new car, you can also explore the newest models from manufacturers that cater to any budget.
  • Somebody recently told me that if you plan to purchase a car in the coming months, make sure you get an offer at the Motor Show. Prices can be up to 20% cheaper.
  • Looking for a family-friendly activity? The show is open on two Sundays (March 6 and 13), days when there is typically little else open in Geneva. Child care is available for babies and children 3 months old to 6 years old.
  • Looking for a unique date night activity? Doors stay open until 20:00 on weekdays and 19:00 on weekends, plus tickets purchased at the door after 16:00 are half price.

Getting to the International Motor Show

The International Motor Show is held at Palexpo, Geneva’s 108,000m² convention center located next to the airport. View an access map of the area by clicking here.

Traffic jams in and around Geneva are notorious during the motor show, especially late in the day and on weekends. People traveling to Palexpo from Geneva’s city center are strongly encouraged to take public transportation, such as a bus (several run every 6-10 minutes) or one of the many trains to the Geneva Airport. Click here for general access information, including public transportation links and offers.

Admission: Tickets & Tips

Doors open Monday through Friday, 10:00-20:00 and weekends, 9:00-19:00. Admission costs CHF16 for adults, CHF9 for children aged 6 to 16, and CHF 11 per person for groups of more than 20 people. TIP: Half-price same-day tickets are sold on site after 4 p.m.

Tickets are sold on site at Palexpo, online, FNAC Switzerland, or through Unireso and SBB CFF FFS. Click here for ticket information.

Combined transport + admission tickets are available through SBB CFF FFS (Switzerland’s train system). Click here for more information on combined tickets through SBB.

Other Resources

Childcare: An on-site nursery is available for children aged 3 months to 6 years; there is no charge for the first hour. Each additional hour costs 6 CHF.

Food and drink: Provided by Palexpo Restaurants, there are six à la carte restaurants on site as well as many bars and snacks available throughout the facility.

Home page of the International Motor Show in English: http://www.salon-auto.ch/en/

Tell us! Are you planning to attend this year’s auto show? Do you have any tips on how to get the most out of your auto show experience?