The Evolving Landscape of the US Automotive Industry in 2025
As the year 2025 arrives, the U.S. automotive industry gears up for exciting shifts and advancements. Driven by the rising adoption of electric vehicles, development of autonomous technology, and introduction of unique models by manufacturers, the landscape exhibits promising growth. Industry experts concur that the key to navigating these changes is participation in automotive tradeshows. These events provide an invaluable platform for sharing insights, launching new offerings, and networking with the movers and shakers of the automobile industry. As an auto business owner, enthusiast, or customer looking forward to these trends, attending the top automotive tradeshows becomes indispensable to stay ahead of the curve.
Here are 14 of the biggest upcoming automotive trade shows. We provide the latest dates and locations for you here, and you can find when and where these automotive trade shows take place in 2023 and 2024.
2025-2026 Automotive Trade Shows in the US
| Automotive Trade Shows | When | Where |
| North American International Auto Show – NAIAS Motor Bella | January 10–20, 2025/January 14–25, 2026 | Huntington Place (formerly Cobo Center), Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Philadelphia International Auto Show | January 11–20, 2025 | Pennsylvania Convention Center, 12th & Arch Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19107 |
| National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Convention & Expo | January 23–26, 2025/February 3-6, 2026 | New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA (2025)/Las Vegas Convention Center (2026) |
| Washington Auto Show | January 31 – February 9, 2025/January 23 – February 1, 2026 | Walter E Washington Convention Center, Washington DC |
| Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS) | February 14–23, 2025/February 13-22, 2026 | Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Ontario, Canada |
| AASP/NJ – NORTHEAST Automotive Services Show | March 14 – 16, 2025/March 20 – 22, 2026 | Meadowlands Exposition Center, Secaucus, New Jersey, USA |
| Truckload Carriers Association Annual Convention | March 15–18, 2025/February 28 – March 3, 2026 | Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, Arizona, USA (2025)/Gaylord Palms (2026) |
| Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) | March 27–29, 2025/March 26-28, 2026 | Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY, USA |
| American Towman Showplace – Tow Industry Week | April 23–25, 2025 | South Point Hotel & Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA |
| Brake Colloquium & Exhibition – SAE | September 21 – 24, 2025 | DeVos Place, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA |
| AAPEX – Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo | November 4–6, 2025 | The Venetian Expo & Caesars Forum, Las Vegas, Nevada |
| SEMA Show | November 4-7, 2025 | Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada |
| Central Florida International Auto Show | November 27–30, 2025 | Orange County Convention Center |
| Progressive International Motorcycle Show – IMS Outdoors | Suspended since 2022; future events not yet announced. | To be determined |
North American International Auto Show – NAIAS Motor Bella
Time: January 14–25, 2026
Venue: Huntington Place (formerly Cobo Center), Detroit, Michigan, USA
Time: January 10–20, 2025
Venue: Huntington Place (formerly Cobo Center), Detroit, Michigan, USA
First up on our list of must-go-to automotive tradeshows is the North American International Auto Show. The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) has canceled its 2025 and 2026 event and plans to return from January 10 to 20, 2025 and January 14–25, 2026, at Huntington Place in Detroit, Michigan. Future shows are expected to continue in January. This well-known event brings together over 700,000 attendees and 150+ brand exhibitors, marking its reputation as one of the largest auto expos in the U.S. The NAIAS provides an interactive platform where industry challenges, evolving customer demand patterns, and best practices in the auto sector in North America are discussed. Exhibitors often seize the opportunity offered by the tradeshow to unveil their latest product offerings and innovative solutions, providing an exciting sneak peek into the future of auto technology.
Philadelphia International Auto Show
Time: January 11–20, 2025
Venue: Pennsylvania Convention Center, 12th & Arch Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19107
The first quarter of 2025 concludes with the Philadelphia International Auto Show, running from January 11 to 20 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. This event features an array of vehicles ranging from new models, concept cars, to exotic and antique vehicles, drawing a crowd of approximately 250,000 people from various segments of the industry.
National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Convention & Expo
Time: February 3-6, 2026
Venue: Las Vegas Convention Center
Time: January 23–26, 2025
Venue: New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
The NADA Convention & Expo provides a key platform for franchised new vehicle dealers and industry leaders to get a sneak peek at the hottest automotive products and technologies. The event, taking place from January 23–26, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana and from February 3-6, 2026 in Las Vegas Convention Center, hosts more than 500 exhibitors, presenting attendees with a truly immersive industry experience. An array of education programs and workshops guided by industry experts, along with myriad networking opportunities contribute to the event’s appeal.
Washington Auto Show
Time: January 23 – February 1, 2026
Venue: Walter E Washington Convention Center, Washington DC
Time: January 31 – February 9, 2025
Venue: Walter E Washington Convention Center, Washington DC
Starting the New Year with a bang, the Washington Auto Show graces the Walter E Washington Convention Center from January 31 to February 9, 2025 and January 23 – February 1, 2026. As the nation’s capital’s largest public show, the Washington Auto Show attracts almost a million visitors each year. The event displays over 600 vehicle models from more than 35 manufacturers, advanced technology exhibit, and historical vehicle displays. This is not to be missed for car enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive insight into the automotive industry.
Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS)
Time: February 13-22, 2026
Venue: Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Ontario, Canada
Time: February 14–23, 2025
Venue: Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Ontario, Canada
Turning our compass to the north, the Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS) stretches from February 14 to 23, 2025 and February 13-22, 2026, in Ontario’s Metro Toronto Convention Centre. And it’s not just the most significant automotive expo in Canada, it’s the country’s largest consumer show. Everything automotive-related is present at CIAS, including cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, concept cars, and even eco-friendly energy cars. CIAS is the mecca for Canadian car lovers wanting to stay ahead in the automotive world.
AASP/NJ – NORTHEAST Automotive Services Show
Time: March 20 – 22, 2026
Venue: Meadowlands Exposition Center, Secaucus, New Jersey, USA
Time: March 14 – 16, 2025
Venue: Meadowlands Exposition Center, Secaucus, New Jersey, USA
Fast-forwarding to 2025, the top automotive trade show to kickstart the year is the AASP/NJ – NORTHEAST Automotive Services Show. Scheduled for March 14-16 and March 20 – 22, 2026 in Secaucus, New Jersey, this event focuses on the repair and service segments of the automotive industry. It serves as a premier platform for the demonstration of new products and technologies, allowing companies to showcase their unique offerings and latest improvements. Additionally, the show also facilitates interactive discussions on the industry’s pressing challenges, thus aiding in the generation of robust, resolution-oriented dialogue.
Truckload Carriers Association Annual Convention
Time: February 28 – March 3, 2026
Venue: Gaylord Palms
Time: March 15–18, 2025
Venue: Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
The annual Truckload Carriers Association Convention, set to take place from March 15 to 18, 2025 and February 28 – March 3, 2026, aims to serve as the melting pot for industry innovators in the trucking sector. The event enables attendees to engage in conversations with some of the most influential voices in the trucking sector, thereby fostering a strongly interconnected industry.
Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS)
Time: March 26-28, 2026
Venue: Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY, USA
Time: March 27–29, 2025
Venue: Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY, USA
The Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) epitomizes the scale and influence of automotive tradeshows. Running from March 27–29, 2025 and March 26-28, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky, this annual fair proudly wears the title of the largest heavy-duty trucking event in the world. With over 1,000 exhibitors and an audience exceeding 70,000 attendees, the event has earned its place as a premier event for showcasing representatives from all major truck manufacturers and scheduling numerous educational sessions on current industry topics.
American Towman Showplace – Tow Industry Week
Time: April 23–25, 2025
Venue: South Point Hotel & Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Moving into April 2025, we have the American Towman Showplace or Tow Industry Week happening in Las Vegas, Nevada. As one can infer from the name, this trade show zeroes in on the towing sector of the automotive industry, providing a specialized platform for those associated with this segment. It brings together service providers, equipment makers, and accessory companies under one roof, assisting entrepreneurs to develop industry-specific networks.
Brake Colloquium & Exhibition – SAE
Time: September 21 – 24, 2025
Venue: DeVos Place, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
The next automotive tradeshow in focus is the Brake Colloquium & Exhibition by SAE International. Slated to occur from September 21 – 24, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas, the event puts the spotlight on advancements and challenges faced in the world of automotive brake technology. With the platform hosting about 500 of the country’s top automotive and trucking brands, this tradeshow calls for active participation from every sphere of the automobile industry and beyond.
AAPEX – Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo
Time: November 4–6, 2025
Venue: The Venetian Expo & Caesars Forum, Las Vegas, Nevada
The Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) makes it to the calendar in the first week of November 2025, with Las Vegas, Nevada serving as the strategic venue. Drawing more than 200 brand exhibitors from across the world, AAPEX is a hub for sourcing the latest in car parts, technology, and services. Primarily focused on the automobile aftermarket sector and the supply chain, this event offers dealerships, private garage owners, and business owners a unique opportunity to establish partnerships with reputed brands and procure top-notch products directly from the manufacturer. The convention center turns into a bustling marketplace every year with the AAPEX, making it a can’t miss event for anyone in the industry.
SEMA Show
Time: November 4-7, 2025
Venue: Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada
Taking place simultaneously with the AAPEX in Las Vegas is the renowned SEMA Show. This professional event, organized by the Specialty Equipment Market Association, is designed specifically for stakeholders in the auto industry. The SEMA Show 2025 is expected to witness about 70,000 attendees and 2,400 exhibits, showcasing cutting-edge automotive equipment and vehicular modifications. From live demonstrations to enlightening workshops and seminar sessions, SEMA provides a versatile platform to keep up with the latest automobile trends and connect with industry experts.
Central Florida International Auto Show
Time: November 27–30, 2025
Venue: Orange County Convention Center
One of the largest auto industry events, the Central Florida International Auto Show, is scheduled from November 27–30, 2025 in the Orange County Convention Center. The show illustrates the industry’s evolution by exhibiting diverse automobile models from different eras to current models, symbolizing the growth of automotive technology. It’s an excellent place for technologists, business owners, car enthusiasts, and general public to explore potential business alliances, partnerships, and to witness automobile innovations firsthand.
Progressive International Motorcycle Show – IMS Outdoors
Time: Suspended since 2022; future events not yet announced.
Venue: To be determined
For motorcycle enthusiasts, the Progressive International Motorcycle Show presents a host of opportunities to interact with well-known companies and race teams, understand the latest updates in the motorcycle industry, and view upcoming bike models. Consistently attracting major players from across the nation, the tradeshow promises to offer unparalleled opportunities for onsite lead generation and professional growth in the field of motorsports.
Optimizing Your Presence at the 2025 Automotive Tradeshows
Basking in the glory of automotive tradeshows is not solely reserved for attendees. For exhibitors, these events provide an excellent platform to build brand value, attract potential clients, and establish industry connections. However, deriving maximum value requires careful planning, a clear understanding of market needs, and a strategy to stand out amid numerous exhibitors. With consumer preferences evolving fast and competitors stepping up their game, understanding trade show dynamics becomes a requisite to emerge victorious.
FAQ:
- Q: What are Effective Ways to Attract Attendees to Automotive Trade Show Booths?
A: To effectively attract attendees to automotive trade show booths, careful planning and a clear understanding of market needs are essential. Exhibitors should develop a strategy to stand out among numerous competitors at auto trade shows. This involves showcasing the latest product offerings and innovative solutions, providing an exciting glimpse into the future of auto technology. Creating an engaging and interactive platform where attendees can experience new models and advancements firsthand is key. By focusing on unveiling unique products and demonstrating their value, exhibitors can capture the attention of potential clients and industry connections at automotive conventions.
- Q: What are some interactive trade show booth ideas?
A: Based on the focus of automotive trade shows on showcasing new offerings and the future of auto technology, interactive booth ideas could include virtual reality experiences showcasing new vehicle features or autonomous driving simulations. Exhibitors could also offer hands-on demonstrations of the latest electric vehicle technology or interactive displays allowing attendees to customize vehicle models. Incorporating augmented reality to provide detailed product information or hosting live Q&A sessions with industry experts at the booth can also enhance engagement and attract attendees to car trade shows.
- Q: What are effective post-event follow-up strategies?
A: Effective follow-up would involve reaching out to contacts made during the automotive tradeshow to nurture those relationships. This could include sending personalized thank-you notes, sharing additional information about showcased products or technologies, and scheduling follow-up meetings to discuss potential partnerships or sales. Staying connected with industry movers and shakers after auto trade shows is crucial for long-term success and staying ahead of evolving trends.
- Q: How to choose the best trade show booth companies?
A: When selecting a booth company for an automotive exhibition, evaluate their portfolio for designs that align with the dynamic and innovative nature of the automotive industry. Ensure they use high-quality materials and construction methods that reflect the professional image of your brand. Consider services like design, fabrication, installation, and logistics, ensuring they can handle the specific needs of a large-scale automotive booth. Look for experience in automotive trade shows and positive feedback from similar clients. Compare quotes for transparency and assess their communication and support. Additionally, consider their location for easier logistics and timely setup at the event.
Your Trusted Tradeshow Partner-Aplus Expo
In the upcoming year, multiple car shows are scheduled throughout the United States, providing numerous chances for you to effectively market your brand. Should you intend to participate in any of the aforementioned trade shows, we recommend considering Aplusexpo as your go-to solution for renting a trade booth. Our extensive selection of trade booth designs can be seamlessly customized to align with your specific needs and branding preferences.
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Don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity to elevate your brand presence and seize valuable networking opportunities at these trade shows. Explore our range of trade booth designs today and make a statement at your chosen event.
Conclusion
Embracing change remains constant in the automotive industry, propelled by innovations and societal shifts. As we look ahead, events like the Washington Auto Show and the NADA Convention become fields for unleashing advanced auto technologies, providing the sector with newfound momentum. Staying on top of these trends ensures that whether you’re an auto enthusiast, a buyer, a seller, or a casual observer, you can smoothly navigate the roads of the future.
Date & Location of Automotive Trade Shows in 2023 & 2024
2024 Automotive Trade Shows in the US
| Automotive Trade Shows | When | Where |
| Philadelphia International Auto Show | January 13-21, 2024 | Pennsylvania Convention Center, Pennsylvania |
| Washington Auto Show | January 19-28, 2024 | Walter E Washington Convention Center, Washington DC |
| National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Convention & Expo | February 2-4, 2024 | Las Vegas Convention Center |
| Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS) | February 16-25, 2024 | Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Ontario |
| AASP/NJ – NORTHEAST Automotive Services Show | March 15 to 17 2024 | Meadowlands Exposition Center, Secaucus NJ |
| Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) | March 21-23, 2024 | Louisville, Kentucky |
| Truckload Carriers Association Annual Convention | March 23-26, 2024 | Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, Kissimmee |
| American Towman Showplace – Tow Industry Week | May 1-2, 2024 | South Point Hotel & Convention Center, Las Vegas NV |
| North American International Auto Show – NAIAS Motor Bella | Cancelled | No official information available |
| AAPEX – Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo | November 5–7, 2024 | The Venetian Expo & Caesars Forum, Las Vegas, Nevada |
| SEMA Show | November 5-8, 2024 | Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada |
| Brake Colloquium & Exhibition – SAE | September 15-18, 2024 | Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, Grapevine, Texas |
| Central Florida International Auto Show | November 14 – 17, 2024 | Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, FL |
| Progressive International Motorcycle Show – IMS Outdoors | Suspended since 2022; future events not yet announced. | To be determined |
2023 Automotive Trade Shows in the US
| Automotive Trade Shows | When | Where |
| Washington Auto Show | January 20–29, 2023 | Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington, D.C., USA |
| National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Convention & Expo | January 26–29, 2023 | Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, Dallas, Texas, USA |
| Philadelphia International Auto Show | January 28 – February 5, 2023 | Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA |
| Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS) | February 17–26, 2023 | Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada |
| Truckload Carriers Association Annual Convention | March 4–7, 2023 | Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, Kissimmee, Florida, USA |
| AASP/NJ – NORTHEAST Automotive Services Show | March 17–19, 2023 | Meadowlands Exposition Center, Secaucus, New Jersey, USA |
| Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) | March 30 – April 1, 2023 | Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, Kentucky, USA |
| American Towman Showplace – Tow Industry Week | May 16–18, 2023 | South Point Hotel & Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA |
| North American International Auto Show – NAIAS Motor Bella | September 16-24 2023 | Washington Blvd, Detroit, Michigan |
| AAPEX – Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo | October 31-November 2, 2023 | Las Vegas, Nevada |
| SEMA Show | October 31-November 2, 2023 | Las Vegas, Nevada |
| Brake Colloquium & Exhibition – SAE | November 12-15, 2023 | San Antonio, TX |
| Central Florida International Auto Show | November 02-05, 2023 | Orange County Convention Center |
| Progressive International Motorcycle Show – IMS Outdoors | September 23-25, 2023 | Long Island, NY |
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