The auto show landscape in the United States is a complex and multifaceted one, with various events taking place across the country. However, despite the abundance of data, a unified understanding of these events has yet to be achieved. To address this gap, Productions Plus Insights, in partnership with the Auto Expo Association (AEA), has launched the Auto Show Insights Initiative—a comprehensive research project designed to bring clarity and consistency to how auto shows are understood and evaluated nationwide. The initiative’s primary goal is to gather a unified set of data from every AEA-affiliated exhibition, with the ultimate aim of creating a comprehensive, standardized lens through which industry leaders, manufacturers, and event organizers can better understand their audiences and measure the value of in-person engagement in a shifting automotive landscape. The research project has been conducted both digitally and in person throughout the 2024–2025 auto show season, with all 28 AEA member shows participating. The study has collected a rich and diverse dataset of 18,654 auto show attendees, providing a wealth of information on attendee motivations, behavior, and evolving expectations. The findings of the study offer a data-driven foundation for shaping the future of automotive exhibitions, as the industry navigates changing consumer habits and emerging technologies. The research has shed light on the powerful influence that auto shows have on consumer behavior, brand engagement, and ultimately, vehicle purchase decisions. One of the key findings of the study is the significance of the ride-and-drive experience, where consumers can get behind the wheel or ride along in a variety of vehicles. This experience has a tangible impact on attendees, with 30 percent saying they are more likely to purchase a vehicle they drive or ride in at the show, and 61 percent reporting that the experience directly influences their buying decisions. Another important aspect of the study is the role of dealerships in the auto show process. The data suggests that local dealerships are seeing a significant increase in foot traffic and sales in the days and weeks following the show, with 35 percent of attendees saying they plan to visit a dealership following the event, and 46 percent intending to purchase within the next three months. Despite the challenges posed by the shift towards digital tools and online shopping platforms, the study confirms that in-person experiences remain a vital part of the decision-making process. Auto shows are evolving, but their core value remains: giving consumers the chance to connect with vehicles, brands, and new technologies in a meaningful, hands-on way. The AEA, a coalition now composed of 28 member shows, including long-standing fixtures such as the Chicago Auto Show, San Diego International Auto Show, and Washington D.C. Auto Show, continues to champion the evolution of auto shows. The alliance aims to elevate the role of auto shows by promoting standard practices, shared data insights, and collaborative strategies that benefit manufacturers, dealers, sponsors, and consumers alike. For more information on the Auto Show Insights Initiative or to view the full findings, visit Automatic Experience Alliance.

The Power of Auto Shows: Shaping Consumer Behavior and Brand Engagement

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• Auto shows are not just showcases, but decision points, with 36 percent of attendees saying they added new brands to their consideration set after the show, and 14 percent removing brands that failed to make an appearance. • The ride-and-drive experience has a significant impact on attendees, with 30 percent saying they are more likely to purchase a vehicle they drive or ride in at the show, and 61 percent reporting that the experience directly influences their buying decisions.

The research has shed light on the significance of auto shows in the buyer’s journey, and how they can shape consumer behavior and brand engagement. As the auto industry continues to evolve, the findings of the Auto Show Insights Initiative will play a crucial role in shaping the future of automotive exhibitions. For manufacturers, dealers, and event organizers, the study provides valuable insights into the importance of in-person experiences, the role of ride-and-drive experiences, and the impact of dealerships on the auto show process. Overall, the Auto Show Insights Initiative has brought a new level of clarity and consistency to how auto shows are understood and evaluated nationwide. The research has provided a comprehensive and standardized lens through which industry leaders can better understand their audiences and measure the value of in-person engagement. The study’s findings will be of great interest to anyone involved in the automotive industry, from manufacturers and dealers to event organizers and sponsors. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s essential to understand the importance of auto shows and how they can shape consumer behavior and brand engagement. The AEA will continue to promote the evolution of auto shows, and the Auto Show Insights Initiative will play a vital role in shaping the future of automotive exhibitions. **Quote from the Automotive Experience Alliance**
“Auto shows are evolving to meet the changing needs of consumers, and the Auto Show Insights Initiative is a key step in this evolution. By providing a unified understanding of auto shows, we can better support manufacturers, dealers, and event organizers in creating engaging and effective experiences for consumers.” – Anonymous
**Definition of Terms**
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: A comprehensive research project designed to bring clarity and consistency to how auto shows are understood and evaluated nationwide. •

: A research project that aims to gather a unified set of data from every AEA-affiliated exhibition to create a comprehensive, standardized lens through which industry leaders, manufacturers, and event organizers can better understand their audiences and measure the value of in-person engagement. •

: A national coalition of auto shows dedicated to enhancing the value of automotive events through unified processes, data, and messaging.