CALGARY – The slowing economy isn’t stopping some 85,000 people from attending the Calgary International Auto & Truck Show this weekend at the BMO Centre.
The idea is to showcase what will drive the industry in the near future. Cadillac—in addition to bringing its concept car El Mirage to Calgary—is excited about taking the next step in hands-free technology as early as 2017 with its new CT6.
“Super cruise will allow you to get on the highway and essentially engage cruise control…you can take your hands and feet off the pedals,” said GM Canada’s George Saratlic.
And analysts suggest that despite the downward trend in energy prices there won’t be fewer cars rolling out of showrooms in Canada.
“People are signing a document that says: ‘I owe somebody $40,000 or $50,000.’ That takes some guts and Albertans, for the most part, continued to do that,” said Dennis DeRosiers, with the Automotive Consultant Report.
In the last five years, auto dealers have been riding high with ever-increasing numbers.
“Many would have thought it was down 10 points, 15 points,” said DeRosiers. “We are essentially flat lining now. I would view that as the best news this industry or city has seen in a long time.”
In 2014, a record 1.8 million new cars and trucks were bought in Canada. Here’s a look at the top 10 vehicles sold:
The Calgary International Auto & Truck show runs March 11 to 15 at the BMO Centre. For more information, click here.
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