In just a couple of days, the automotive industry will host a highly anticipated international event known as the IAA Mobility, or the International Mobility Show Germany. This event, slated for September 5th to September 10th, 2023, will be held in Munich and will provide a unique opportunity for automakers from around the world to showcase their latest innovations. It will effectively serve as a grand showroom for the most cutting-edge and technologically advanced vehicles on the planet.
In this ArabGT article, we will delve into the forthcoming participation of new vehicles in this significant event, the IAA Mobility, which serves as a clear testament to the industry’s remarkable resilience. This is especially noteworthy during a time when numerous experts and analysts are predicting the decline of motor shows.
History of IAA Mobility
Before we delve into the new cars set to participate in the event, it’s valuable to take a brief look at the historical roots of the German motor show:
Early Days
The IAA, which originated in 1897 at the Hotel Bristol in Berlin with a modest showcase of eight vehicles, evolved into a regular German automotive fixture, typically held annually and often twice a year during 1905 to 1907, reflecting the rapid growth of the automobile industry. However, World War I temporarily halted the event, only for it to be resurrected in 1921, featuring 90 vehicles from 67 manufacturers.
Despite the challenges posed by the global recession, the 22nd IAA in 1931 in Berlin garnered 295,000 attendees and introduced front-wheel drive vehicles. The 29th edition in 1939 was a milestone, drawing an unprecedented 825,000 visitors and debuting the iconic Volkswagen Beetle. Sadly, this marked the last IAA before it was suspended once again during World War II.
After The End of World War 2
After World War II, the IAA (International Automobile Exhibition) faced changes and relocations. In 1951, it moved from Berlin to Frankfurt, becoming a biennial event. Over time, it evolved to focus on passenger cars in odd years and commercial vehicles in even years. Despite challenges, such as the aftermath of 9/11, the IAA continued to thrive. In 2009, during the Great Recession, it remained a magnet for visitors, showcasing a variety of mobility options, from hybrid and electric vehicles to fuel cells and hydrogen power.
In summary, the IAA’s journey includes shifts in location, focus, and resilience in the face of global events. It has grown from its humble beginnings in the late 19th century to become a significant international platform for the automotive industry, adapting to changing times and challenges along the way.
Recent History
In the 2010s, the IAA (International Automobile Exhibition) achieved significant milestones. In 2011, the 63rd IAA introduced the “Hall of Electric Mobility” and connected driving conferences. In 2015, the New Mobility World platform launched but was overshadowed by the Dieselgate scandal.
The 67th IAA Cars in 2017 saw a decline in confidence in the German auto industry, while New Mobility World expanded its focus beyond traditional auto shows.
In 2019, New Mobility World expanded, yet the IAA experienced a decline in both attendees and exhibitors, notable for the significant protests that occurred. This Frankfurt edition signified the end of the IAA’s presence in the city before it transformed into IAA MOBILITY in Munich in 2021. The 2022 show was hosted in Hanover from September 20th to 25th.
Vehicles Featured at IAA MOBILITY 2023 :
Audi
Audi’s participation at IAA MOBILITY 2023 will showcase the Audi activesphere concept electric vehicle, offering a vision of a future five-meter electric crossover design. Visitors can explore the camouflaged prototype of the Audi Q6 e-tron, gaining insights into its new interior. Furthermore, Audi will present a PPE powertrain and share technical insights into their future e-mobility initiatives at the Volkswagen Group stand.
BMW
BMW is set to feature an array of models at IAA MOBILITY 2023, showcasing their commitment to innovation. The spotlight will be on the BMW Vision New Class, a concept car that integrates their advancements in electrification, digitalization, and circularity. Additionally, BMW will unveil the BMW i7 Protection, the world’s first certified all-electric special protection sedan.
The MINI brand will introduce the all-new all-electric MINI Cooper and MINI Countryman. BMW Motorrad will present the e-Parkourer, represented by the BMW CE 02. Furthermore, BMW will showcase the latest plug-in hybrid models from the new BMW 5 Series. The event will also serve as the platform for the introduction of several other new BMW models, including the BMW iX1, BMW i4, BMW i5, BMW iX, and BMW i7.
CUPRA
CUPRA will showcase the CUPRa DarkRebel concept car at IAA MOBILITY in Munich. This innovative vehicle blends design and performance, drawing inspiration from video game technology. It was initially unveiled at the CUPRA Exponential Impulse event in Berlin in April.
Ford
Enthusiasts visiting Königsplatz will have the opportunity to witness the debut of the Ford Explorer, along with getting up close with the Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, and E-Tourneo Courier. Ford is also introducing visual presentations for the Bronco, Ranger Raptor, and Mustang Dark Horse. For those who crave horsepower and electric experiences, test drives of the Ford Mustang Mach-E will be available.
Mercedes
Mercedes-Benz is gearing up for a compelling showcase at IAA MOBILITY. They will unveil a concept vehicle in the IAA Open Space, offering a glimpse into their vision for the future entry-level segment. Visitors to the Mercedes-Benz Pavilion can also explore an extensive lineup of current and upcoming electric vehicles, ranging from compact models to high-performance sedans and luxury SUVs to full-size sedans.
The event will include the world premiere of the new E-Class All-Terrain, as well as the all-electric VISION EQXX and Vision One-Eleven super sports car. Additionally, the facelifted EQA, EQB, and EQV models will be on display at the IAA Summit.
Opel
Opel will unveil the Opel Experimental concept car, with a modern design and a spacious, well-lit interior. Opel also introduces the fully electric Opel Astra Sports Tourer, expanding their electric lineup, alongside the enhanced Opel Corsa Electric. The showcase extends to include the Rocks e-XTREME and Rocks Electric KARGO micro LCV, offering a holistic view of Opel’s electric vision.
Porsche
Porsche has a special celebration in store at IAA MOBILITY, marking the 60th anniversary of the iconic 911 sports car series. They are presenting a lightweight special model, weighing just 1380 kilograms, making it the lightest in the current generation. It boasts high-revving boxer engines and a manual transmission. Limited to 1963 units, it’s priced at 292,187 euros. In addition to this, Porsche will showcase the 911 L Coupé, Mission X, Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid, Taycan Turbo S, and 718 Spyder RS at the event.
Smart
Smart is set to mark the European premiere of the Smart#3 at IAA MOBILITY. This battery-electric compact crossover SUV represents the second offering from Smart Automobile, a collaborative effort between the Mercedes-Benz Group and Geely Holding, following the introduction of the Smart#1. The global debut of the Smart#3 took place in Shanghai in April 2023.
Tesla
The revised version of the Model 3, which has been eagerly anticipated for months, was unveiled by Tesla, the U.S. electric car manufacturer, in Oslo. More than six years after the initial production of the Model 3 and with over 2 million units sold, both the rear-wheel drive Model 3 and the long-range all-wheel drive version have undergone significant upgrades. The German premiere of the Tesla Model 3 will take place at the IAA MOBILITY event.
Volkswagen
Volkswagen is set to feature at the event with new additions. The larger Passat will make its debut, and the recently launched ID.7 will be on display. Additionally, the ID.7 GTX, the third GTX model after the ID.4 and ID.5, will have its world premiere. These GTX models combine various elements including electromobility, sustainability, and sportiness. They come equipped with dual-motor all-wheel drive technology to offer a balance between efficiency and dynamism. A partially concealed glimpse of the upcoming Tiguan is also expected. Volkswagen’s presence at the show is sure to draw attention.
