Visitor numbers rise for 2026 Paris Auto Show

The 2026 Paris Auto Show, held at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, attracted 518,372 visitors over six days of public access, according to organizers. This figure represents a slight increase compared to the 2024 edition, which recorded 508,007 visitors, and marks a recovery from the 2022 edition, which had 397,812 visitors.

Event closed after press day

The exhibition closed on Sunday, October 18, after a day dedicated to the press. The event featured more than 60 manufacturers and over 100 exhibitors, including returning brands such as Fiat, Hyundai, Mercedes, and Opel, as well as new participants like Chinese automaker Chery and American brand Lucid. Notable absences included Toyota and BMW, which opted not to participate due to financial difficulties.

Testing and digital engagement

The show included a variety of activities, with nearly 100 models available for testing and 6,000 tests conducted, including 2,700 in supervised autonomous driving. A dedicated test center brought together Deloitte, La Squadra, and Electra. The digital platform attracted 820,000 unique visitors, with 3.2 million views and 1.2 million sessions during the exhibition month.

Chinese presence and political interest

The 2026 edition saw an increase in the number of Chinese brands, with 25 exhibitors compared to 12 in 2024. The event also featured political officials, with 37 visits recorded, compared to 17 in 2024. Organizers announced plans for an extended 2028 edition, running from October 19 to 29, though previous mentions of an extended format for 2026 were later forgotten.

Event success amid industry challenges

The success of the 2026 show comes amid challenges in the automotive sector, including a purchasing power crisis in France and the impact of rising fuel prices. Despite these issues, the event demonstrated the continued relevance of the automobile industry, with electric vehicles playing a prominent role.