Origins in the Belle Époque

The Paris Motor Show began in 1898 at the Jardin des Tuileries with an exhibition called the "International Exhibition of the Automobile, Cycle and Sports." Cars had to complete a 23 km Paris-Versailles route under supervision to be displayed, attracting 140,000 visitors to see 220 models across 6,000 m².

Move to the Grand Palais

By 1901, the event had grown so much that it moved to the Grand Palais, a venue that would host the show for nearly 60 years. This shift marked the beginning of the show being known as the "Auto Show" and became a symbol of automotive innovation in Paris.

Challenges of the 20th Century

The Paris Motor Show faced interruptions during both World Wars, closing between 1914 and 1918 and again between 1939 and 1945. Despite these closures, the 1946 edition became a significant post-war event, drawing 810,000 visitors and showcasing models that could not yet be sold due to material shortages.

Growth and Evolution

The show continued to grow, with the 1954 edition marking a million visitors for the first time. This milestone reflected the increasing popularity of cars as a mass consumer good. In 1962, the event moved to the Parc des Expositions de la Porte de Versailles, a larger venue that allowed for more brands, including the first Japanese manufacturers.

Name Change and Expansion

In 1976, the show was held every two years, and in 1988, it officially became the "Paris Motor Show," emphasizing its international ambitions. The 1998 centenary edition highlighted the rise of city cars and family minivans, showcasing models like the Peugeot 206 and Citroën Xsara Picasso.

Record Attendance

The 2004 edition set a record with 1,461,000 visitors, making it the world's most-visited auto show. Despite reduced hours in 2008, the event still attracted 1,433 million people, showing its enduring popularity.

Impact of the Pandemic

The 2020 edition was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the first time since World War II. However, the show returned in 2022 in a condensed format and regained over 500,000 visitors in 2024, with most major manufacturers participating and highlighting the shift toward electric vehicles.

Enduring Legacy

Despite facing wars, economic crises, and technological changes, the Paris Motor Show has remained a central barometer for the automotive industry. It continues to adapt, reflecting the industry’s evolution and maintaining its role as a key event for showcasing new technologies and trends.