The 2020 Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) has been cancelled amid concerns over the spread of the coronavirus known as Covid-19. An injunction decision made by the Swiss Federal Council on February 28 prohibits any event with more than 1,000 people in attendance until March 15, encompassing the entire public and media run of the Geneva Motor Show. This cancellation represents a significant impact on the automotive industry, especially for manufacturers who had anticipated grand debuts.
Geneva is always a captivating auto show. In the past, debut vehicles have included phenomenal entries such as the Volkswagen ID Buggy, Lagonda All-Terrain Concept, and Range Rover SV Coupe. The cancellation of this prestigious event inevitably highlights the challenges encountered by the automotive sector during these unprecedented times.
According to a public statement issued by the show, its organizers accept the decision. “We regret this situation, but the health of all participants is our and our exhibitors’ top priority,” said GIMS Foundation Board Chairman Maurice Turrettini. “This is a case of force majeure and a tremendous loss for the manufacturers who have invested massively in their presence in Geneva. However, we are convinced that they will understand this decision.”
Moreover, it appears that automakers are largely in agreement with this decision. A statement from Audi of America acknowledges that the cancellation is in the best interest of the health and safety of all participants and the company’s employees. What’s more, the company will reschedule the premieres of those vehicles that would have been shown in Geneva, thereby ensuring that their innovations are eventually unveiled to the public.
The Morgan Motor Company, a boutique English sports car manufacturer, will hold its own premiere events as scheduled, following a revised format. The same can be said of the supercar manufacturer McLaren Automotive. Other Geneva Motor Show debuts, such as the first public appearance of the 2021 Kia Sorento, have yet to be rescheduled or fleshed out in full, indicating that the ripple effect of this cancellation will be felt across the entire automotive landscape.
Switzerland has reported 13 known cases of the novel coronavirus, including three in the city of Geneva. All but one of the confirmed cases involve individuals who had recently traveled to Italy, underscoring the international implications of the pandemic. That country has had 650 infections and 17 deaths linked to Covid-19.
According to Swiss news outlets, the government is currently not taking other measures to contain the virus’s spread. However, authorities may consider further actions, such as closing schools, if they believe that the situation worsens. Consequently, public health remains a paramount concern for everyone involved.
American authorities continue to stress that the overall risk to the general public is relatively low, with approximately 60 confirmed coronavirus cases nationwide. Health officials recommend frequent handwashing, avoiding face-touching, and self-quarantine if flu-like symptoms occur. Moreover, individuals with Covid-19 symptoms should first contact a doctor or medical professional remotely, ensuring safety before visiting medical facilities.
