Global auto giants target new deals at Jeddah show

Mufareh bin Mohammed Al-Zahrani, director of transport and road affairs of the Western Region, inaugurated Saudi International Motor Show (SIMS) — the 34th international event for motor vehicles, SUVs and motorcycles — at the Jeddah Center for Forums and Events yesterday. Held alongside is Autocare — Saudi Arabia’s international event for auto parts, accessories and garage equipment. Riyad Bank is the show sponsor offering its leasing program and other services to potential buyers and in addition leasing and insurance companies are offering schemes for auto finance, insurance and warranties. Most of the auto magazines are present at the show covering it extensively for the Saudi and international audience. The event features test drive, modified cars and other activities. The 34th edition will not only display new car models but the launch of new brands as well.” Organized by Al-Harithy Company for Exhibitions (ACE), this is an exhibition for car buyers and enthusiasts alike to take a closer look at the latest models and concept cars. “Visitors can expect an impressive array of new convenience, connectivity and safety features from world\'s top manufacturers in vehicles that range from sedans to coupes to luxury cars, 4x4s and SUVs, and hatchbacks to convertibles and mini-vans — from the United States, Europe, Japan, Korea and China,” said Zahoor Siddique, VP, ACE. Saudi Arabia’s auto market is large and growing toward more sophistication and manufacturers are betting on its long-term growth. “Car sales in Saudi Arabia, the Gulf’s largest automotive market, are expected to jump over 30 percent from around 676,000 in 2008 to 88,000 in 2013 as the Kingdom remains economically and commercially resilient to the global downturn,” he added. Over $ 1 billion worth of cars are sold in the Kingdom every year and this figure is increasing by about 27 percent annually. This made the Saudi government place the development of the automotive sector as one of their prime strategies in the strengthening of its industrial (nonoil) base. Autocare section is displaying spare parts, tires, lubricants, special vehicles, navigation systems, car care products, car audio and video systems, accessories from China, Turkey and large number of companies from Saudi Arabia representing products and services from worldwide. The show will continue till Dec.28 and visiting hours daily from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.