When writing about auto reveals in Canada, it seems like I’m plagiarizing the epic rock band Queen:
Another one bites the mud.
And one other one gone, and one other one gone.
Another one bites the mud.
On Nov. 28, I made a LinkedIn put up together with a hyperlink to our story on Ford Canada pulling all company involvement in Canadian auto reveals in 2023.
I wrote: “Let’s hope this isn’t the first of many dominoes.”
I used to be talking particularly of automaker assist.
But, in a means, it was the second domino. The Calgary International Auto and Truck Show and Vehicles & Violins charity gala had been canceled simply days earlier than, for a myriad of causes.
And then got here information the Vancouver International Auto Show was additionally off, in addition to the Ottawa-Gatineau International Auto Show.
That led to my subsequent auto-show associated LinkedIn put up: “The dominoes are falling FAST, you guys. Another auto show in Canada bites the dust. This time? Vancouver.”
As somebody overlaying the auto trade, it saddens me to see so many reveals axed.
Live occasions of any form are one thing particular. An opportunity to attach with associates, clients and colleagues. But right this moment, every little thing — and I imply every little thing — is on-line.
You date on-line. No extra nightclubs wanted. You watch motion pictures on-line. Say good bye to the theatre. You store on-line. And that’s the top of the auto present as we all know it.
COVID-19 didn’t assist, forcing us to be somewhat extra comfy staying dwelling and somewhat extra cautious about going out.
Pile on the worldwide microchip disaster and subsequent car stock scarcity — each ongoing — and it’s no surprise automakers are turning their backs on expensive in-person occasions.
Ford defined to Automotive News Canada why it selected to forgo the 2023 auto present season:
“As the auto industry experiences change at a pace never seen before, Ford of Canada is transforming every part of its business. The company is moving fast to lead the EV revolution and is learning how to connect with consumers in new ways. These challenges mean making some tough choices and one of those decisions is to discontinue corporate support of auto shows in 2023 for both the Ford and Lincoln brands.”
That leaves me nervous for the 2023 Canadian International AutoShow, which, as I write these phrases, continues to be scheduled to go forward in Toronto in February.
But as anybody who has watched dominoes topple, it occurs quick. And there’s no stopping them as soon as they begin.
Source: canada.autonews.com
