2008 San Francisco International Auto Show November 22, 2007

In 1958, unable to participate in the local domestic auto show, forward looking Bay Area import auto dealers decided to create their own exposition. Given the novelty and interest in foreign made cars at the time, the auto dealer’s idea proved to be a good one. For nearly two decades the Import Car Show, the precursor to what is now the San Francisco International Auto Show, flourished and expanded.

As attitudes and the auto industry changed, owing to greater global cooperation in automotive production and the increased competitiveness in the world’s car markets, it was only natural that the Import Car Show broaden its scope to include the products of both the domestic and international manufacturers worldwide. Thus the ever-expanding import show became truly international in 1982 when it moved into its new home at the Moscone Convention Center.

From the first year in its new home the show was a tremendous success and had already outgrown the space. Given the sudden increase in the varieties of makes and models available the show was literally bursting at the seams.

In 1992, another hall was added to the Moscone Center providing a total of 1.2 million sq. ft. and giving exhibitors the opportunity to construct more elaborate displays to showcase their vehicles. It also gave spectators a more spacious and inviting environment in which to view them.

Now in its 50th year, the San Francisco International Auto Show continues to grow. With more than 800 vehicles from over 40 manufacturers, the 2008 edition of the International Auto Show will feature exhibits in Moscone Center’s north and south halls and Gateway Ballroom plus the north and south lobby areas. The San Francisco International Auto Show is the premier auto show in the Bay Area and the only auto show held locally that lures the high-tech and dazzling displays from the world’s major manufacturers. It is the second largest auto show in the western states and the number one exhibition of any kind in northern California.

The 2008 San Francisco International Auto Show, set for November 22 to December 2, 2007 at the Moscone Convention Center, promises to be the most spectacular in the 50-year history of the event. Presented by the San Francisco Chronicle|SFGate.com and supported by the California Motor Car Dealers Association, the International Auto Show is expected to top last year’s record attendance.

In addition to the 2008 models the San Francisco International Auto Show will feature classic cars, racecars and provide a glimpse into the future with prototypes, concept cars and alternative fuel vehicles. The Show will also have an extensive auto accessory area with after market products, interactive exhibits and much more.

The 2008 San Francisco International Auto Show will run for the eleven days and is open on Thanksgiving. Show hours are 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Thursday, November 22 through Saturday, December 1 and 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 2. Admission is $8 for adults, with children 12 years and under free when accompanied by an adult. Tickets can be purchased at the door. For more information visit our website at www.sfautoshow.com.

Official Website: http://www.sfautoshow.com/