The roar of the engines, screech of burning rubber and dare-devil stunts galore – it’s all part of the fun-packed action at the British Motor Show. Watch Regit's recap video here.
There was something for everyone with an estimated 70,000 visitors expected at the four-day event held in Farnborough, which is well above the total number for last year.
With family entertainment at every turn, there were car club enthusiasts proudly displaying their classic models, manufacturers showing visitors around their latest models and all manner of treats for adrenaline junkies.
Everywhere you looked there was something worth exploring or watching. The supercar paddock was an instant hit with McLarens, Ferraris and Lamborghinis and for those looking to a greener future, the electric arena offered glimpses of what technology is being developed with experts on hand to answer questions.
It was in that arena that the Tech Theatre showcased the latest sustainable products, fuels and vehicles and the Retro Electric Zone focused on the conversion of older vehicles to EV.
As always, SsangYong’s stand drew in the crowds and was busy throughout the event with a line-up of their latest models and visitors were given the opportunity to test drive vehicles too.
Commenting on attending the British Motor Show, Kevin Griffin, managing director of SsangYong Motor UK Limited, said: “The show has been successful for us since its inception in 2020. This year we have used the event as a platform to launch our revised Rexton and Musso, which have had significant interior upgrades, and to announce our corporate name change to KGM, which will happen in 2024.”
Elsewhere, noise levels were at a peak in the Bridgestone Motorsport Arena as the crowds flocked to watch the Crewsade drift shows that combined scripted entertainment with high-octane motoring mayhem.
A new Motorbike Zone proved a success with bikes from the Isle of Man TT race and British Superbike Championship on display, and also debuting at this year’s show was the Alpine Esports Zone with a range of virtual reality racing simulators.
And, of course, stuntman Paul Swift was back to attempt more record-breaking challenges. Last year he claimed two Guinness World Records for completing the most donuts around a motorcycle that was performing a wheelie at the same and for the world’s tightest and fastest parallel parking in an electric car.
This year Paul was taking on the challenge of completing five stunts in the quickest time. He said: “After an incredible year in 2022, setting two Guinness World Records titles at The British Motor Show, I can’t wait to be back again this year attempting to set a brand new one. The show is all about the live entertainment and thrills, and trying to put together a series of stunts in such a short time frame is going to make for a truly epic show for this year’s crowd – I’m hoping they are going to get behind me and cheer me on to another Guinness World Records title”
In the eBay Live Stage, Car S.O.S hosts Tim Shaw and Fuzz Townsend drew in the crowds and were joined on stage by a selection of celebrities from the automotive world and beyond, including Mike Brewer, Paul Cowland, AJ & Curtis Pritchard.
There were driving lessons for under 17s, parachute displays and some truly fabulous vehicle modifications on display too as you wandered through the grounds.
And for anyone wanting to take a break from the motoring action, the Greatest Hits Radio Live Music Stage delivered banger after banger!
Andy Entwistle, CEO of The British Motor Show, said: "The British Motor Show is proving to be one of the most interactive, engaging and exciting events in the UK, with more than 70,000 visitors expected through the gates over the weekend.
"In tough economic times, it's one of the best-value days out for any family and a great way to appreciate cars of all ages, shapes and sizes, from the latest EVs to the all-time classics. With great live entertainment and fun for all the family, it's much more than just a car show."
The dates are already in for next year’s show which will run from August 15 to 18.
