While the Vancouver International Auto Show (VIAS) is a little late in the car-show circuit schedule, that’s really only an issue for us media folks who need the hot takes.
Having said that, there was still plenty of news to go around on day 1 of this year’s show, which is running from March 28 to April 2, and there are plenty of cool activities for show attendees to take part in (not to mention all the sharply dressed new cars, of course).
At the Kia stand, for example, visitors can check out a Sorento crossover dressed in all manner of Canadian Special Olympic swag. Kia Canada Chief Operating Officer Ted Lancaster was on hand at the show to announce that Kia has signed a multi-year agreement with the Canadian Special Olympics team to be its official automotive partner. That means the squad will be delivered to events in various Kia products—likely the Sedona and Sorento—decreasing the stress on the teams and athletes. Kia employees will also be given time to volunteer at various events across Canada, adding to the veritable army of 20,000 currently serving the Canadian Special Olympics team.
On the car reveal front, the Vancouver Show marks the first time you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the all-new Range Rover Velar on North American soil. Other cool new cars making an appearance include the 2018 Kia Stinger and 2018 Lexus LS 500h, plus the Subaru VIZIV-7 and Buick Avista concepts.
For the more luxury-minded, VIAS 2017 has you covered. Arrive early to beat the crowds that are sure to converge on the ultra-rare Singer Porsche 911, making its BC debut, as well as the Ford GT, Bentley Bentayga, spectacular Ferrari 250 GT SWB and race-prepped Maserati 200SL.
The kids, meanwhile, will get a kick out of seeing full-size renditions of their favourite Hot Wheels cars such as the famous Bone Shaker, while daddy and mommy can try their hands at driving efficiently with 15-minute test runs of the industry’s most popular green vehicles such as the Kia Soul EV and Chevrolet Bolt.
Speaking of which, as part of the show’s “green” slant, you can win a Bolt by visiting the show or else the VIAS website. Good luck!
Show Hours
March 28: 4pm-10pm
March 29-April 1: 10am-10pm
April 2: 10am-6pm
