2018 Dhaka Motor Show – wrap up

The 13th instalment of the Dhaka Motor Show, 4th Dhaka Bike Show, 3rd Dhaka Auto Parts Show and 2nd Dhaka Commercial Automotive Show 2018 concluded Saturday, 24th March, at the International Convention City, Bashundhara.

Organised by CEMS Global, the annual event provides a platform for the private and commercial automotive industry of Bangladesh to showcase their products. This year, authorized local dealerships for brands such as Toyota, Honda, Mercedes Benz, Ford, Mitsubishi and newcomers Peugeot displayed their latest offerings to the growing automotive sector in Bangladesh. The facelifted Toyota Vios and the Mercedes CLA took centre stage among the new cars.

A special attraction this year was the introduction of concept vehicles – with Toyota/Navana Limited showcasing the FT1 sports car and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Mirai, it is the first time that a prototype concept car has been displayed in the Dhaka Motor Show. While concept car showcases are common in more significant markets and motor shows of a higher caliber (such as Geneva Auto Show or Detroit Auto Show) the presence of these vehicles at this year's Dhaka Motor Show signifies that this is a growing market for global brands such as Toyota. The motorbike industry in Bangladesh is growing steadily as well – Japanese brands such as Suzuki and Kawasaki are now competing for attention against cheaper Indian and Chinese brands, bringing more diversity and choice to the consumers in an already large sector.

At the same time, Shift organised a classic car meet in conjunction with the Old Car Club of Bangladesh and Motorwerks Ltd. Featuring nearly everything from restored Land Rover Defenders to a restomodded Datsun alongside classic American muscle, the meet was a resounding success. The 1969 Ford Mustang, 1971 Dodge Charger and 1957 Chevrolet 150 were big hits with the crowd.

Over 620 booths spread out over 5 halls housed brands and vendors from over 16 countries including Japan, South Korea, France, China, India, USA, Italy, UAE and Bangladesh. With participation numbers growing steadily every year, CEMS Global is optimistic about the impact that these events have on the local economy.

Photos: Shadman Al Samee, Farhan Ahmed and Farhan739