International motor show to draw 100,000 visitors

The 35th International Motor Show (SIMS) Jeddah was inaugurated by Hani Abu Ras, mayor of Jeddah, in the presence of Waleed Sayed, vice president Al-Harithy Exhibitions, and CEOs of different automobile companies.
The SIMS is organized by Al Harithy Company for Exhibition (ACE).
The 5-day International Motor show would see the launch of 7 new models of Ford, 2 luxury models of Hyundai, 6 models of Toyota and 5 latest models of Nissan.
The show displays more than 100 advanced and modified cars and commercial vehicles, motor vehicles, SUVs and motorcycles.
It also showcases cars accessories, spare parts, the latest gadgetry from lights, music systems and upgrades displayed from around 100 Saudi and international companies at the exhibition.
The top event for the Saudi automobile is expected to attract over 100,000 visitors including vehicle enthusiasts from across the Kingdom.
“The motor show is an important event being held here in Jeddah because it creates an opportunity for car enthusiasts to see the latest models,” said Ras.
“We are always very keen to see more of such exhibitions being staged in Jeddah, this year we saw more participants than previous years, which indicate development of the automobile industry,” he said.
He said Jeddah city is a commercial hub. Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jeddah Municipality and all other government departments always support the city’s economic development.
Zahoor Siddique, vice president of ACE, a number of new exhibitors taking part of this year’s show as well as more exciting events to be part of the show.
Besides the launch of various new models, SIMS’s unique themed zones offer professionals, businessmen, enthusiasts and consumers a relaxed and enjoyable experience.
The outdoor areas are transformed into a huge mart for commercial vehicles providing a singular platform for the Kingdom’s transport and logistics industry.
Siddiqui said Saudi Arabia’s vehicle sales totaled 759,000 in 2011 and are expected to pass the 1 million per year mark by 2018.
Roch C Legault, country manager of Ford, said that they are very pleased to launch 7 new models of Ford — Fusion, MKC Concept and others.
“Our partner Aljazeera is opening six new dealerships and 12 quick lanes, service centers, and 10 new parts stores, so we are not only introducing new products but expanding services for our customers especially in Saudi Arabia,” said Legault.
Samir Cherfan, managing director, Nissan Middle East, said they joined the show with the full line of passenger cars and super cars as GTR with latest Nissan Sentra and Nissan Altima models.
“These are hugely exciting times for Nissan as we see our plans for the future in the Kingdom materialize, we made a pledge to renew the bond with the Kingdom and bring the best of Nissan to the market,” said Cherfan.
The leading automobile company Toyota joined the exhibition with the new tagline called “Definitely Toyota” which demonstrates the reliability of the Toyota vehicles and brand said Eng. Adel Ezzat, managingdirector of Marketing at Abdul Latif Jameel.
They are taking the advantage of the motor show to revel that tagline with six latest models and the high technology of Toyota Prius, he said.
Hyundai launched two new and exclusive models of luxurious cars “Elantra” with latest technology features and facilities and “Limousine centennial” which enthral the attendees.
The show timings are daily 5 p.m.— 10 p.m.