The automotive spotlight returned this fall to the Quebec region of Terrebonne with the arrival of the Salon de l’auto de Lanaudière, which ran from Friday, October 17 to Sunday, October 19, at the Centre Expo Terrebonne.
More than 20 automobile manufacturers were anticipated to participate, presenting models across the spectrum: internal-combustion, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and full electric.
A notable feature this year was an expanded focus on mobility beyond the conventional car. The event included a range of small electric-mobility vehicles like motorcycles, e-bikes, scooters, and children’s all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
Test drive opportunities were in abundance too; indoors, attendees could drive on a dedicated circuit for smaller electric/ mobility units. Outdoors was an 8-kilometre test drive route through the city of Terrebonne, organized in collaboration with Association des véhicules électriques du Québec (AVÉQ). Free trials of various electric and plug-in hybrid models were offered.
Beyond test drives, there was a new area called “zone prestige” — a curated display area intended to showcase premium vehicles and create aspirational appeal for visitors.
Conferences were also held on each of the three days of the event, providing additional information and education. Representatives from Roulez Électrique, Silence on roule !, ComplexEv, and AVÉQ were among the speakers.
The event, although smaller than the larger and more well known auto shows in Canada, offers valuable platforms for education, marketing and customer engagement. Dealers who attend or participate can leverage this visibility, try new formats (mobility devices, test drives) and align with regional consumer behaviours. Even amid digital disruption, these shows appear to remain valuable touchpoints.
