Nothing explosive about it

After 6 days of euphoria, frenetic activity and hoopla, the 7th Auto Expo will close today. Take a look at those automobile majors who flattered to deceive.

As the Seventh Auto expo draws to a close, we take a look at what is easily the worst nightmare for persons suffering from acute claustrophobia. From commercial vehicle dealers in Mainpuri to entrepreneurs in Alwar seeking two-wheeler dealerships, the show played host to a variety of people.

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There were some of the regulars at the show, which did not make it this time. DC Designs was one such name. For the first time in many years, DC did not participate in the Expo and show goers did miss his funky concepts that are the life of the Expo. There was a dearth of concept cars too and the Suzuki Concept S2, Skoda Tudor and Hyundai HCD 7 were the only mentionable concepts.

However a few pavilions managed to outshine everything and everyone and our awards to the best three picks at the Expo this time would be Mercedes-Benz, Suzuki (Two-wheelers) and the Halls no. 12 and 13, which housed the component industry. A honourable mention is due for the vintage car display which reminded us, again, of the automotive history.

Thanks to Suzuki, people at the show remembered what real bikes look like. Curiosity levels were the highest for the Hayabusa and the Burgman though New Delhi should count as one of the fortunate cities in the world to have been graced by the B-King. Sadly, for enthusiasts, they will now pack all these bikes back into crates, send them to Japan and then start manufacturing 125cc commuters. I will never forgive them!

There was a new life at Halls no. 12 & 13, housing the automotive component industry. At least 25-per cent of the visitors were foreigners. India has arrived and there’s a new horizon out there.