Recognised as one of the premier attractions in Alberta, this year’s Edmonton Motor Show (hosted by the Edmonton Motor Dealers Association) promises to be one of the most exciting yet. In talking with Bob Vilas, executive director of the EMDA and the show’s manager, a major change has been moving the date. The 2013 event will take place from April 18-21 (last year the show ran from March 1-4). “The change has enabled us to get out from the mix with other shows, such as Toronto, Calgary and Quebec,” says Vilas, who believes the new dates will help further increase the show’s visibility.
Edmonton (and Alberta) is truck country, so pickups are big business here. As a result, it’s only natural that OEMs chose this show to unveil their latest haulers. New models that will make their debuts include the 2014 Toyota Tundra (which will make its Canadian premiere) and also the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, plus the 2013 Ram 3500 HD. In fact, Vilas says there will be 22 new 2014 model year vehicle unveilings at this year’s event. He says it’s also an exciting time for the industry in Alberta. “Our dealers are doing well, the economy is doing well and we know the marketplace.”
Besides trucks, another big draw (and something that makes the Edmonton show stand out) is a huge accessories display. In fact, of the 65,000 sq.ft. devoted to parts and accessories, approximately 70 per cent is related to pickups. “Out here it is normal to drop $75,000 on a truck that’s loaded up to the max,” says Vilas.
Although trucks are expected to be major attractions, pulling people in from as far away as Fort McMurray, Grande Prairie and beyond, Vilas says there are plenty of other attractions to wow showgoers, including the 77,000 sq.ft. Lux Lane exotics display (which features sound absorbing drapes designed to add to the high end experience) and the aftermarket Auto Emporium. The latter will include a 6,000 sq.ft. display by AutoCanada, encompassing the large (and growing) dealer group’s individual vehicle brands and related accessories.
Other highlights include the Precious Metal Gala VIP preview, that this year, takes place the night before the show’s official opening (April 17). This social gathering of the movers and shakers of the industry is considered a highlight of the year, delivering fine food and memorable entertainment in an ambient automotive setting. In 2013, the Edmonton Motor show will also be hosting its third annual collector car auction. “Last year we saw 75 per cent of the vehicles that came to the auction sold,” says Vilas.
Taking place at the Edmonton Expo Centre, which covers more than 500,000 sq.ft. Vilas says a big plus (besides being a major destination event for western Canadians) is that unlike some other auto shows, visitors get to see the displays in the same building and all on one level, making the show easier to navigate for attendees.
