When the 2024 New York International Auto Show opens its doors to the public on Friday, March 29, showgoers might notice a few notable brand no-shows. Well, the show must go on, and to fill the space that was once occupied by the absent manufacturers, NYIAS organizers have developed new and expanded attractions, creating an interesting mix of vintage, specialty and new automobiles.
The Javits Center is a big place – 3.3 million square feet to be exact – so a big space needs some big attractions. To give you a preview, here’s a rundown of some of the special experiences you’ll find this year.
Test Rides
EV Test Track
One of the most significant benefits of an EV is the lack of tailpipe emissions, so what better way to showcase this than a giant indoor EV test track? Show attendees can take a ride in the latest EV models with the added benefit of not being choked out by exhaust fumes.
We’ve noticed over the years that as the line-up of available EV models grows so does the size of the Test Track at NYIAS.
This year’s EV Test Track occupies a large portion of the first level and will feature vehicles from Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, Kia, Lexus, Nissan, VW, and Lucid. We’re excited to explore the latest EV models from GM (including the Cadillac LYRIQ and Equinox EV), as well as those from other automakers such as the Lucid Air, Kia EV9, and Lexus RZ.
Hyundai Test Track
Since the introduction of the IONIQ 5, Hyundai has provided NYIAS attendees with the opportunity to catch a ride in this all-electric hatchback. Now, with the IONIQ family of vehicles expanding over the past few years, showgoers will have the chance to experience not only the IONIQ 5, but the high-performance IONIQ 5 N and the IONIQ 6, as well as the Hyundai KONA Electric.
Ford EV Ride
Ford also also joins the EV action with their booth showcasing EVs such as the F-150 Lightning and the Mustang Mach-E. Ford’s test track offers a unique experience that promises visitors a thrilling ride. Imagine experiencing the full power of an EV as it races inside a building toward a cinderblock wall.
Camp Jeep
Not every ride-along at the New York Auto Show is solely with EVs. At Camp Jeep there’s a diverse lineup of the brand’s rugged, off-road ready vehicles where you may find yourself in an electrified Jeep 4xe model.
Even though parent company Stellantis (Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Alfa-Romeo) is absent from this year’s show, Camp Jeep is still happening, and thank goodness for that. It’s one of the staples of the New York Auto Show and one of the greatest auto show experiences of all time.
The first thing you see when walking up to the Javits Center is a fleet of Jeeps climbing up and down the 28-foot-tall “Jeep Mountain”. Seeing Jeeps off-roading against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline is a bit unusual, and the expressions of awe on the faces of kids say it all. It’s hard to beat that level of brand awareness.
One tip if you’re planning on participating, don’t just ride in the Wrangler and Gladiator. It’s the smaller Jeeps such as the Compass that impress on this obstacle course and are pretty fun.
Ford Bronco Of-Roadeo Adventure Ride
The Bronco Off-Roadeo is a new attraction at the New York Auto Show this year. Like Camp Jeep, it promises to be a fun ride in Ford’s newer –and already iconic – Bronco. We can’t wait to give it a try.
Specialty Exhibits
Downey’s Dream Cars
Just like Tony Stark, award-winning actor Robert Downey Jr. shares a passion for classic cars and cutting-edge technology. These two worlds collide in the MAX series, “Downey’s Dream Cars.” The show chronicles Downey Jr’s journey to electrify his antique auto collection, with assistance from builders across the country.
The six vehicles featured on Downey’s Dream Cars will not only be on display but will also be raffled off to benefit the FootPrint Coalition. This nonprofit organization, launched by Downey Jr. and his partners, is dedicated to adopting technologies that advance human systems toward a cleaner environment.
Celebrity Vehicle Exhibit
Robert Downey Jr.’s dream cars won’t be the only celebrity vehicles on display. The Celebrity Vehicle Exhibit will also showcase vehicles owned by celebrities, such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s customized Packard Super 8 and the first Stutz Blackhawk once owned by the King himself, Elvis Presley.
45 Years of Automotive Excellence: The Supra Exhibit at the New York Auto Show
Celebrate 45 years of the Toyota Supra and its evolution over the years.
Hometown Heros
Every year, the New York Auto Show showcases police vehicles from New York’s past and present. After Covid-19, NYIAS expanded its display to include vehicles used by NYC’s essential workers.
Various Car Club Displays
Other specialty car exhibits include the GTO, Ford Mustang, Porsche and Hot Rod Club displays.
Kids EV Driving Academy
It’s not all about the adults! Let your kids test their driving skills in a Power Wheels Jeep at the Kid’s EV Driving Academy.
Toyota Sports Festival
At this unique event, attendees are invited to participate in a series of free adaptive sports experiences, including wheelchair basketball, hand cycling, sled hockey, and skateboarding. Check out the Toyota Sports Festival Toyota Sports Festival website for more info.
Subaru Loves Pets
Each Year Subaru helps find homes for shelter animals from across the country. Read our recent story about the Subaru Loves Pets here on RPM News, or visit their website here.
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