The 12th International Automobile Show 2014 which opens today will showcase the latest automotive models, exclusive deals and offers, in addition to live on-site test drives and the latest trending automotive technologies and performances.

This four day event will run until November 29, at the Expo Centre Sharjah, UAE.

Several new brands and new vehicles are being premiered during the show, offering visitors an opportunity to be among the first in the region to see what automakers have to offer in terms of design, technology, specifications, features, upgrades, future concepts and dealer offers.

Some of the new brands making their debut at the show include BRABUS, Porsche, Koenigsegg, Alfa Romeo, Dodge, SRT, JEEP, LOTUS, W Motors, Peugeot, VKool, Chery, GAC, BAIC apart from other popular marquees.

Visitors also have the chance to win an amazing prize – every visitor can enter into a raffle draw and the winner can drive home a Jeep Wrangler Sport, courtesy Trading Enterprises and Fiat Chrysler.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Bin Sultan Al Qassimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, the biannual International Automobile Show was inaugurated by HH Sheikh Abdullah Bin Salim Bin Sultan Al Qassimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.

The ceremony was attended by Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, chairman, Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO, Expo Centre Sharjah; other officials, dignitaries and industry representatives.

Midfa said: “International Automobile Show will literally be your one-stop shop for purchasing a car. There is no need to visit several car showrooms, wait for test drives, etc. Just walk in, see all the models, compare, take test drives and book a car – all in a single visit and at a single place.”

Dealers are showcasing brand new launches as well as latest models that cover convertibles, concept cars, sedans, 4X4s, motorbikes, water vehicles and commercial vehicles, besides accessories, audio and video systems, navigation systems and other car care products and services.

“The show is being held against the backdrop of a thriving regional car market. Car sales have been on the rise in the UAE since the past several years and are likely see to high double-digit growth this year too. This has prompted all major car dealers to participate in the show and make the most of favorable market conditions,” added Midfa.

According to latest reports, new car sales have seen a 20 per cent increase to 199,277 units in the first half of 2014. Given the positive start, full year car sales may just fall short of 400,000 units. More than 360,000 vehicles were sold in the country in 2013.

Auto enthusiasts point out that the Show will be a good platform for buyers to pick and choose, given that automakers and dealers are striving to differentiate themselves through technology offerings. With motorists these days spending more time in their vehicles, buyers are demanding in-vehicle technology in the form of connectivity, driver assist or safety features.

At the show, new buyers and those looking to upgrade will be treated to new trends and technologies like hybrid power, cylinder deactivation, start-stop systems as well as high strength, lightweight materials in body construction that greatly improves efficiency.

Wassim Derbi, marketing manager, Gargash Enterprises, said: “It is an ecstatic experience and we are looking forward to deliver the best to automotive enthusiasts.”

“This year we have an incredible presence with three separate stands, each showcasing a separate product launch. The introduction of the much awaited 2015 Pajero will receive a great interest amongst the Mitsubishi  fans. The JAC S3 SUV is quite a hit with the young audience while the J4 is a clear stunner during the launch. Chery Arrizo 7's debut will be a big buzz among motoring aficionados in the UAE and foresee great growth opportunities in both fleet as well as individual ownership categories." said Mr. Joe Rogan, Sales Director of Al Habtoor Motors.

KT Govindarajan, president, V-Kool (Kapico Group), the Official Car Care partner at the show, which will be showcasing state of the art window tinting and car care solutions, said: “Having the capability to make ordinary glass extraordinary, in terms of protection and performance, is what makes V-Kool one of a kind.”

The show has also lined up a series of on-site activities to assist buyers in choosing their vehicles and testing them, including a test drive track and a 4x4 track. All visitors will also automatically qualify to enter into a raffle draw and the lucky one can drive home a free luxury car.

There will also be a car audio and car modification competitions, apart from a classic car display by the Sharjah Classic Car Museum and Club, which is home to 100 classic cars of different brands manufactured between 1917 and 1980.

Visitors are also provided information on awareness programs on road safety by Sharjah Police and the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority.

Buyers also have the option of availing exclusive deals and packages from Emirates NBD. The bank has tied up with Expo Centre Sharjah to offer their services during the show, which will help visitors to assist in their buying procedures, including financing, at the pavilions. – TradeArabia News Service