By Amanda Moses
Every year the New York International Auto Show puts the pedal to the metal at the Jacob Javits Convention Center with over a hundred immersive experiences, EV test tracks, Camp Jeep New York Toyota’s Thrill Ride, virtual reality driving games, and more.
Taking place from March 29th to April 7th, the convention showcased a new era of smart tech cars—many never seen before—with a main focus on electric vehicles, and a display of beloved classics like Rolls Royce, Camaro, Mustang, and more.
Attendees were able to experience indoor tracks, featuring lanes that exhibited the car’s capabilities like suspension/comfort lane, a slalom lane, and an adrenaline-pumping acceleration lane while being accompanied by a professional driver. During the ride, the driver explains the many advancements to the vehicle and the sheer power of electric cars.
Both Subaru’s National Park themed exhibit and Subaru’s Loves Pets section returned for an exhibit that provided guests an opportunity to see what the car’s would look like in a wood-like setting as well as allowed people to interact with adoptable puppies and learn about animal friendly cars.
Additionally, Toyota along with US Olympic, Paralympic sport partners, and Challenged Athlete Foundation, brought back a sports section that underscored youth athletes with physical disabilities. Everyone was invited to try wheelchair basketball, hand cycling, sled hockey, and skateboarding.
In honor of Robert Downey Jr.’ documentary series Downey’s Dream Cars there were six modified classic vehicles from his personal collection. Guests were able to not only view these now eco-friendly cars that reduces their carbon footprint but had a chance to enter a sweepstakes to win the six cars at www.rdjdreamcars.com. All of the proceeds will go to the
FootPrint Coalition, a nonprofit organization launched by Downey Jr. that pushes on advanced human systems to create a greener environment.
The New York International Auto Show also marked its 20th Word Car Awards, with Kia’s EV9 being crowned the 2024 World Car Of The Year.
“We’re pleased to kick off the New York Auto Show each year by celebrating the winners of the World Car Awards,” said Mark Schienberg, president of NYIAS. “Receiving this distinction from 100 of the world’s top automotive journalists is a major victory for all those involved and is a perfect way to open North America’s first and largest-attended auto show. Congratulations to the World Car team on 20 years of excellence, and best of luck to all the finalists!”
Photos by Amanda Moses
