During the last few years, the international panorama of automobile shows has undergone a profound transformation process. The closure of many of these events, which have not found the formula for survival, is providing a magnificent opportunity to increase the role of those who are still active.
Such is the case of IAA Mobility 2023, which these days has turned Munich into the world capital of the sector. The German event, which combines the novelties presented at the fairgrounds with two exhibition spaces in the heart of the city, is the ideal showcase for the next generation of electric vehicles.
As if it were a challenge to history, a car of French origin has sought to establish itself this year as the main focus of attention in Munich, a predetermined territory for the domain of German manufacturers. The brand new Renault Scenic, which in its next edition will abandon the characteristic minivan nature of the saga, captures the attention of fans. The future SUV from the diamond firm, which will debut on the European market in December, will inherit the spacious interior of its predecessors, in addition to standing out for the efficiency of its two electric motors.
Mercedes-Benz takes advantage of the Munich stage to put on a show of power. The brand of the star unveils an innovative concept car, destined to advance its vision of the segment of access to the car. The main series novelty shown in its exhibition area is the E-Class All-Terrain, the third variant of its emblematic saloon, a version that surprises with its mountaineering genetics. BMW unveils the Vision Neue Klasse, a concept car that glimpses the future of mobility, while the Smart
Opel also assumes an interesting role in the mobility environment generated in Munich. In the general strategy of the powerful Stellantis consortium, the German firm aspires to wield the flag of cutting-edge technology. Through a concept car called Experimental, discover the design guidelines that its next models will share. If we take into account that in 2028 it will be a 100% electric brand, it is logical that its shiny prototype is a rolling laboratory powered by batteries.
For its part, Cupra presents another spectacular prototype, called DarkRebel, created using technologies from the universe of video games and with the collaboration of fans of the brand.
Volkswagen, which is playing at home in Germany, presents the new generation of the Passat, which, with more than 34 million units manufactured throughout history, is its second best-selling model, surpassed only by the Golf. Given the sharp proportions of the estate body on display in Munich, it is clear that a strong commitment to aerodynamic efficiency has been made. With a launch scheduled for the first quarter of 2024, its range will have two plug-in hybrid versions capable of exceeding one hundred kilometers in electric mode.
The landing of Chinese manufacturers is another of the interesting focuses of the Munich Motor Show. BYD exhibits six electric models at the German event, with special emphasis on the new Seal U and Denza D9. On the packed MG stand are three high-performance vehicles, the Cyberster, the MG4 Xpower and the glittering Marvel R.
Beyond the automotive innovations presented, the German show has highlighted the transformation that the sector is undergoing through the surprising irruption of the company LG in its list of exhibitors. This electronics multinational has shown its particular interpretation of the future of mobility, a horizon in which the component industry will play an increasingly relevant role.
