SMMT News

Global motoring spotlight shines on Birmingham

21 October 2002 #SMMT News

The highlight of the motoring calendar, The British International Motor Show 2002, sponsored by The Daily Telegraph, opens its doors to the public this Thursday, 24 October. And with more than 75 new cars making their debut, including 12 world launches, and more features than ever before, it looks set to be the best event ever.

More than 650,000 people are expected at the NEC in Birmingham, as Britain’s largest manufacturing sector brings the biggest consumer exhibition to the heart of the midlands, the hub of the motor industry.

And as the public prepare to be wowed, the importance of the industry behind the Show has been underlined by Prime Minister Tony Blair. In an interview available to download from www.motorshow.co.uk the Prime Minister said, ‘The British Motor Show will tell the rest of the world that the British car industry, motor vehicle industry, is in good shape. We’re moving forward. We’re at the cutting edge of all the right things, from technology and innovation to road safety, all the areas we need to be in. And the government is totally committed to this industry, one hundred per cent.’

On new cars, Christopher Macgowan chief executive of show organiser SMMT added, ‘The UK has established itself as the second largest market in Europe. Sales are booming as choice, quality and value increase by the year. More than 2.5 million people will buy new cars this year, a record total, and this Motor Show is their opportunity to see what is on offer today, tomorrow and into the future – and to have a truly great day out.’

This year’s Motor Show will feature nearly 300 exhibitors and more than 700 cars on display. World launches include models like the MG Rover high performance sports car, TVR 350C coupe, Aston Martin DB7 GT and Invicta S1.

Notes to editors:

Opening hours and dates for British International Motor Show 2002:

Press Day


22 Oct, 8.00 am to 7.00 pm

Business Day


23 Oct, 9.00 am to 7.00 pm

Daily Telegraph Preview Day


24 Oct, 9.00 am to 7.00 pm

Public Days


25 Oct – 2 Nov, 9.30 am to 7.00 pm

3 No.v 9.30 am to 5.30 pm

Tickets cost £15 for adults and £7.50 for children/senior citizens on all public days from 25 October – 3 November. Tickets for The Daily Telegraph Preview Day are £40

Tickets available via www.motorshow.co.uk or by calling the Motor Show hotline on 0870 906 2002

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