DUBAI - The seventh International Automobile Show is all set for a spectacular opening at Expo Centre Sharjah on November 23, 2004, said Fasahat Ali Khan,  

DUBAI - The seventh International Automobile Show is all set for a spectacular opening at Expo Centre Sharjah on November 23, 2004, said Fasahat Ali Khan, acting director general, Expo Centre Sharjah.


The five-day event, organised by Expo Centre Sharjah with the support of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), and sponsored by Emirates Motor Sports Federation and autoemirates, will showcase the latest in convertibles, prototype cars, 4x4 vehicles, luxury coaches and other latest models of automobiles manufactured by some of the world's best known auto makers.

The International Automobile Show is considered to be the most effective platform by global auto makers and car dealers for reaching across to car lovers, enthusiasts, and collectors in the region. This year, the event will witness the launch of several new models in the UAE including the all new convertible mini from BMW, Mercedes' CLS & SL65 AMG, and Murano, Armada and the entire range of Infinity from Nissan.

Khan said: "The International Automobile Show over the years has established itself as an event that is at par with other auto shows in the world. Though held once in two years, the show because of its wide reach is awaited with great anticipation by global automakers as well as car dealers for launching new models in the region. Global automakers attached a great deal of importance to the Gulf region as besides having 45 per cent of the world's total oil supplies, it boasted of low fuel costs, high incomes, growing population, and most importantly one of the highest per capita levels of car ownership in the world. As per estimates, the number of cars on the roads in the UAE is growing at an average of 9.8 per cent per year."

Meanwhile, Suzuki, the Japanese auto manufacturer, will display future concept car from Suzuki called S-Ride. The prototype of the S-Ride is specially brought in from United Kingdom for the show. The compact two seater gives a futuristic vision of the evolution of compact cars.