Automobile Barcelona, the International Motor Show organised by Fira de Barcelona, celebrates its centenary edition from 11-19 May, and will feature 44 vehicle brands, a growth of 46% compared to its previous edition.
The event, the first fair in Spain to commemorate 100 years, will take place in the emblematic Montjuïc grounds and will occupy almost all of the pavilions, taking over three halls and expanding to the exterior area.
Visitors to the car show will be able to see 42 of the newest vehicles on the market, as well as having an opportunity to check out the latest in self-driving technology.
Meanwhile, to celebrate the centenary, the ‘Génesis’ audiovisual display will take visitors on an interactive and immersive journey through the show’s hundred-year history.
The show could be marred by protests, however, as Nissan workers have threatened to target the event to focus attention on the Japanese company’s intention to lay off 600 employees.
Talks between unions and the firm, which has two plants in Catalonia, broke down last week over workers’ demands for a freeze on further redundancies until 2022.
Whatever happens, Automobile Barcelona will go ahead, allowing visitors to take in the sector’s latest novelties, such as the PAL-V, a car that can turn into a helicopter.
For its centenary year, the event will also feature classics, such as the Ford T, the Rolls Royce Silver Ghost, James Bond’s Aston Martin DB5 and the Ferrari Testarossa.
The show is also aimed at industry professionals, with meetings such as that of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, on 9 May.
As has become a feature of such events, technology will play a leading role, and visitors can download a mobile app that helps them plan their visit and also stores their entrance ticket.
This year also has a special family entrance fee of 35 euros, which allows entry to two adults and up to three children. The regular price of entry is 10 euros per person.