Performance, prestige and innovation take centre stage at Ceylon Motor Show 2019

The biennial Ceylon Motor Show switched off the ignition last month after an extremely successful run. Jointly organised by the Ceylon Motor Traders Association and the Classic Car Club of Ceylon, along with title partner Sri Lanka Insurance Motor Plus, the three-day immersive and highly interactive event was held from 15-17 March at the BMICH, and attracted over 15,000 visitors.

Running now for over a decade, the country’s largest and most important auto industry event proved yet again to be a major draw for manufacturers eager to directly engage with potential customers, passionate petrolheads, and even families interested in a fun day out. 

In the two years since the previous show, the motoring landscape of Sri Lanka has changed dramatically. Newer features have since been introduced to popular models, vehicular designs have evolved to suit the current tide, and driving technology has been fine-tuned to entirely new levels of efficiency. While most established players have still held their ground, newer manufacturers have also entered the market.

Visitors to the 2019 Ceylon Motor Show were able to witness this vehicular evolution in the form of exclusive car launches, interactive demonstrations, and exciting side events. The ideal pitstop for all things wheeled, leading global manufacturers and their local distributors brought to the show their latest and greatest in cars, motorbikes, SUV’s, trucks -and more- with special deals for prospective customers. 

“We are extremely pleased to have partnered with the organisers for this event,” said Chandana L Aluthgama, CEO of Sri Lanka Insurance, the country’s leading insurance provider. “The Ceylon Motor Show has yet again served as the perfect platform for us to connect with interested vehicle buyers looking for the very best in financing options.”

A family friendly affair, there was plenty of fun for little ones too with car-themed entertainment, and special events catering to the younger and even less motor-versed-audience.  

Attending automobile enthusiasts were also privy to get a first look at never before seen vehicles, as some manufacturers unveiled their newest models at the Motor Show. 

“This year, the overall response both from potential buyers and motoring fans was very encouraging,” said Sheran Fernando, Chairman of The Ceylon Motor Traders Association, the largest franchise holder of the world’s most prestigious vehicle manufacturers. “Driven by the resounding success of 2019, we are already looking forward to the next edition of the show.”

Paying tribute to some of the most iconic cars ever made, the Classic Car Club of Ceylon triggered a sense of motoring nostalgia with a showcase of over 140 stunning classic automobiles – the best, rarest, and largest collection of classic cars to have been displayed in the country. Both owners and experts were on hand to discuss classic car restorations and vehicle history, among other topics. 

“The 2019 Ceylon Motor Show has been a great success for us,” said Ramani Ponnambalam, President of the Classic Car Club of Ceylon. “We had a huge number of enthusiastic visitors drawn to our vehicle display, all sharing in our passion, not just for our models, but for classic automobiles in general.” 

While there was on display plenty of traditional machinery flexing power, performance, and prestige, the event was fuelled too by the country’s increasing interest in hybrid and fully electric vehicles. As a result, this year’s showcase – more than ever before - shone its headlights on new technologies, sustainability, and environmental awareness, where industry specialists were able to educate the public on the functioning and maintenance hybrid vehicles, as well as the benefits of buying brand new.

In addition to its title partner, Sri Lanka Insurance Motor Plus, the Ceylon Motor Show 2019 was also supported by the official English Radio Partner: TNL Radio & TNL Lite, Official Sinhalese Radio Partner: Derana FM, and the Official Outdoor Digital Signage Partner: Emerging Media.