Monaco recently welcomed another high-profile show to add to its overflowing annual calendar of events. Those lucky enough to own or rent property in Monaco know that there are already a number of great car rallies and races in the Principality, but the new Motor Show takes the prestige to a whole new level. The brand new international car show, Salon International de l’Automobile de Monaco (SIAM), took place from 16th-19th February 2017. This was its inaugural event and it was a resounding success with 35,494 visitors attending during four days of shows, debates and conferences.
SIAM benefited from the high patronage of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, who inaugurated the Salon. It also had the support of the Prince Albert II Foundation, the Tourism and Congress Department, the Bains de Mer, the Automobile Club de Monaco and Compagnie Monégasque de Banque (founding partner). Guests and exhibitors included car manufacturers, equipment manufacturers, investors and CEOs of innovative companies. It was also sponsored by numerous corporate partners such as EDF and Michelin who helped to set up this first edition. More than 50 registered brands participated, which is only set to grow as the event becomes more popular over the coming years.
Video credit: Benjamin Gavelle
The first edition of SIAM focused on environmental responsibility, which has become a hot topic over recent years. There were car models, demonstrations and discussions at the Forum of the Ecological Automobile dedicated to sustainability. Exhibitors showcased amazing futuristic cars (including electric, hybrid, LPG and hydrogen) designed using avant-garde technologies that reduce the automobile industry’s negative environmental impact. Some of these cars, including the Citroen Mehari Historic, were available for test drives on roads that belong to the legendary Monaco Grand Prix circuit.
Prince Albert II arrived in a Hybrid Lexus and took part in a number of events and press activities. The models presented included the Pininfarina H2 Speed, the Renault TreZor, the Mercedes F015, the Monte Carlo Automobile Tecno and the entire Porsche range. One of the highlights was the Lamborghini Centenario, which was built as a limited edition to celebrate the birth of founder Ferruccio Lamborghini 100 years ago. There are only 40 of the state-of-the-art sports car in existence and they are worth €2.5 million.
Video Credit: NYCarspotter
Danton Arts Kustoms impressed visitors with their display of Hot Rod variations, including the creation of a Hot Rod Porsche 964, based on the body of the Porsche 911 Carrera 2 Type 964 with a sliding roof. Other fantastic marques and models included the Tesla X and S, Bentley, Rolls-Royce and the Nissan Electric Leaf coupe. Visitors could try driving on a racing simulator at the Michelin stand.
SIAM largely took place outdoors in eleven central locations including Quai Albert 1, the Grimaldi Forum and the Casino Square, which were connected by electric shuttles (Bolloré Bluebus). Monaco is a great place to live with many high-profile events like this, the Grand Prix and Rolex Masters taking place on its sunny shores. If you are interested in investing in Monaco real estate, please contact us for more information.
