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2008 Geneva Motor Show

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Khatir Soltani
All kinds of new and interesting products at Geneva

After the first weekend only, the 78th Geneva International Motor Show has welcomed nearly 300,000 visitors. This figure corresponds to the average number of visitors in past years. In the end, more than 700,000 people are expected at the Geneva Palexpo.

This year, over 130 models from all the various segments made their World or European debut. New technologies and "green" cars prove trendier than ever, while two manufacturers are making their very first appearance in Geneva: China's BYD showcased a hybrid-powered car and Norway's Th!nk introduced a fully electric city car.


The show also marks important milestones for two famous auto brands. Italdesign, the legendary Italian design and engineering firm which created the original Volkswagen Golf as well as the stylish Alfa Romeo Brera, celebrates its 40th anniversary by presenting the Quaranta Concept. This hybrid sports car uses Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system.

Meanwhile, engineer and designer Franco Sbarro is making his 35th appearance at the Geneva show. He came up with two unique concepts specially designed for this event: a sporty, mid-engine two-seater called the Alcador GTB and a four-wheel motorcycle nicknamed Pendolauto.

The Geneva Motor Show houses nearly 1,000 brands of automobiles, tires and accessories from more than 30 countries around the world. A total of 260 exhibition stands are set up. For a quick tour, please browse through our photo gallery.

The show closes its doors on Sunday, March 16.
photo:François Duchesneau
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada