Eight regional debuts and 14 local car launches highlighted the opening of the Qatar Motor Show (QMS) 2017 on Tuesday at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).
The five-day event, under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani, is jointly organised by Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) and Fira Qatar.
HE the Minister of Transport and Communications Jassim Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti led the show's official opening and VIP tour, which was attended by dignitaries, government officials, prominent businessmen, diplomats, and guests.
Speaking to reporters after the tour, the minister described QMS, which features 110 vehicles, as an exceptional show that contributes to the country's economy.
He noted that the Qatar government is always trying to help and support the private sector, especially in doing business in the country.
In a statement published by the official Qatar News Agency, al-Sulaiti said: "The current edition of the exhibition area has seen an increase by 18% from the previous one which includes 38 exhibitors."
He also stressed the importance o f raising public awareness on the need to use hybrid cars, featured by a number of companies at the show, to help preserve the environment.
QMS 2017 also saw the launch of the BAIC brand for the first time in Qatar, including Mercedes's E-Coupe, E43 and SLC 43; Lexus's LC 500; Chevrolet's Tahoe Midnight edition, Trailblazer Z71, Camaro ZL1, Malibu Turbo, Silverado Midnight edition; Ford's Fiso Raptor; Lincoln's Continental; Ram's 1200 and 1500 limited editions; Hyundai's Ioniq Hybrid; and Genesis's G90; and G80.
Alfardan Sports Motors, the official dealer of Ferrari in Qatar, also unveiled the new 812 Superfast in a glittering ceremony at the event.
The stunning Ferrari model is a benchmark in the mid-front-engine sports car segment, pushing the boundaries of speed and performance like never before.
According to organisers, the new model debuts highlight QMS's leading position as a regional platform for exclusive reveals, reinforcing Qatar's posit ion as a premium business events destination.
"After months of preparation, we are pleased to raise the curtain on the 2017 edition of the show, an event that is proudly led by local talents," QTA's Exhibitions Department director Ahmed al-Obaidli said in a statement. "It sheds light on what our nation has to offer within the technology and automotive sector."
Themed 'Driving to Innovation,' QMS 2017 also features the latest technology, innovation, and performance trends in the automobile industry. It gives international carmakers the opportunity to interact with consumers, offering hands-on experiences with their products and technology.
The show allotted a 5,000sqm showroom for classic cars – some of the rarest and most iconic pieces in the world, which are presented by the Sheikh Faisal Museum, strategic partner Mawater, and Alfardan.
Mawater, a classic car and motorcycle club, is organising a daily classic car parade from the VIP parking of DECC at 3pm until April 22.
The classic sedan parade will take place on Wednesday followed by a sport muscle cars parade on Thursday. On Friday, a GCC mixed classics parade will hit the road followed by a pick-up classic trucks parade on the concluding day.
Mawater was founded to support, unite and represent the mutual interests of historic vehicle owners and enthusiasts of Qatar while educating the public on the industrial heritage and promote responsible and safe driving.
Batabit, a centre that aims to effectively participate in building a generation of responsible riders, will host a speed bikes parade on Wednesday and a series of biking parades (choppers and spiders parades) until April 22 at the Doha corniche.
Visitors are being encouraged to take part in the daily social media competitions at the show which will be open on Wednesday and Thursday from 4pm to 10pm. On Friday and Saturday, entry is from 1pm to 10pm.
