After a 13-year absence, the British Motor Show will return in 2021. The event is due to take place in August, at the Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre in Hampshire.
It’s not going to be quite the same as it was, though. The last British Motor Show took place at London’s Excel in 2008 and was organised by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
Taking the reins for the 2021 British Motor Show, to be held on August 19-22, is Andy Entwistle, CEO of events company Automotion. “This is going to be something unlike any other motor show you’ve seen,” he said.
The show was originally scheduled for 2020, but had to be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Now, with the PM’s confirmed plans to ease lockdown completely by June 21st, Mr Entwistle is pressing ahead apace with the 2021 rebirth.
“People will have been desperate for a great day out for over a year and we’re absolutely committed to giving them one, with a motor show that reinvents the car show concept and will also give automotive companies an unmissable chance to reengage with the public after the toughest of times.
“We have had such fantastic support from everyone we’ve spoken to and I have a panel of key people from within the industry to help ensure that we shape a show that not only delivers an amazing experience for visitors, but also helps support the automotive industry in the UK.”
British Motor Show 2021: what’s on
The Farnborough exhibition space offers 40,000 square feet, across five halls. Outside, there will be a live area with a two-mile track for test-drivers. Even children under 17 will be able to take supervised driving lessons.
Highlights will include a special Select Electric Motor Show for EVs, a live arena, a live stage, a Retro-Electric Live showcase, a supercar paddock, robot-making competition and a dedicated marketplace for petrolhead gifts.
There will also be test drives, a Paul Swift Stunt Driving Experience and a Caterham Experience that includes a drift taxi experience.
Mr Entwistle is even planning an automotive careers expo, to run throughout the event, to support the automotive industry in its post-pandemic recovery.
Exhibitors and more event features will be announced in the build-up to the August event.
Tickets cost £18.50 per head, or £37 for a family of four. For those who want to visit the show every day it’s open, a four-day ticket can be purchased for £23.
There are also £100 VIP tickets, giving special parking, early access and celebrity meet and greets, a VIP lounge, free tea, coffee, breakfast and lunch – and a VIP goodie bag and car sticker at the end of the day.
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