The Singapore Motor Show is back for its 16th run but it was my first time attending it. You may wonder how that's even possible. Well, it can be if you're an idiot when it comes to cars, a.k.a me.
Just two weeks into the new year and I was tasked with an important mission by my Deputy Editor, Desmond. Attend the Motor Show and be the eyes of those who have not been to the event, he said.
So for the first time in (my) history, I took part in something I never would have imagined myself going for.
All that glitters is not gold
Like its name suggests, all things motoring form the entirety of the Motor Show. There's no escaping cars at an automotive mainstay like this one.
More than once, I've heard lamentations about the scaled-down show this year. In my humble opinion though, the lineup from the various participating car brands was still impressive and one that would have made a trip down to Suntec City worth every single mile.
If you happen to be curious about what was showcased, these top 12 picks curated by our Editorial team should satiate your appetite.
But beyond the dazzling parade of cars, I found myself drawn more to the considerations that went into every brand's booth. From the balls of giant yarn sitting idle next to the ORA Good Cat, to Suzuki's recreation of Tokyo and its peripherals, not forgetting the mini campsite Hyundai set up right beside its Ioniq 5, I was lost for words.
Time and again, I was pleasantly trumped by the brands' creativity.
If there was one thing I've learnt, it's that size doesn't always matter. How do you stand out amidst the deluge of expansive, flashing LED screens and elaborate lifestyle concepts of the big players?
The answer may surprise you: Go small.
Polestar was a great case in point for me (and my colleague, Mattheus). Its minimalist styling and monochromatic colour theme characteristic of the brand truly showed in the design of its booth, which probably occupied only a third of the space its neighbours had. That was what allowed its identity to shine through in a simple yet impactful way.
It isn't only about the cars
Since I'm not a petrolhead, I gravitated to the sides of the exhibition hall where everything else was. There, I discovered a mine of gems - car accessories, car care products, and others.
It felt a lot like I was venturing into a space jam packed with the behind-the-scenes action.
I was told that these products and services were located one level under the Motor Show hall, last year. I could only imagine the enormity of the event's previous runs. Having everything contained in one space, though, was something I liked about this year's show.
For one, you needn't have to walk too far or too much to comb through all there is to see. But perhaps what's more important is how this facilitates the shopping process - bringing everything the potential customer may need, within their reach.
First, you walk right into the heart of the event, captivated by the cars sitting pretty. Just when you think you're done browsing and are making your way out, your attention is caught by EV charging providers, car loan financing and insurance, and shiny tools to pamper your car. How clever.
And while the moms and dads do their shopping, the little ones were not left wanting. There were little nooks of entertainment for the children: Small reading tables and chairs, slot car racing, and simulators for the older ones who enjoy the thrill of racing.
In some ways, the Motor Show reminded me of a carnival spin-off, except one that was made just for the car enthusiasts.
The Russ Swift Stunt Show
Speaking of enthusiasts, one spectacle definitely not to be missed is the Russ Swift Stunt Show. Lasting for about an hour, the legendary Russ Swift performed a series of his signature "Swift Parking", J-turns, Donuts (effectively drifting if I understood it correctly), and a Dance Routine. As it turns out, the "Dance Routine" was the expert swerving the car in figures of eight and more, in tandem with the music.
Apart from the high-pitched tyre screeches and the smell of burning rubber - which were a little much for me to take beyond 30 minutes - I was genuinely impressed by the 72-year-old who did every single stunt with exacting precision and vigour.
I always admire that dedication to perfecting one's mastery of their craft, no matter the age.
I also appreciated how an element of engagement was infused into the show. 'Joy Riders' were selected from the audience to ride with Russ Swift during the stunts. It looked like good fun but also extremely scary and motion sickness-inducing!
When the energy from the crowd ran low, the host made sure to throw in a little competition to spice things up. All in all, it was definitely an interesting experience for a first time show-goer.
My verdict
So, after having said so much, my verdict is: Don't skip on the Motor Show just because you're not into cars!
There are, in fact, lots of deals and exciting things (other than cars) that could catch your eye and even make you a convert.
With lifestyle concepts featuring a bigger presence in the automotive space, non-car fans may find good reasons besides cars to go to future shows.
Till then, we hope you've enjoyed the 2024 Motor Show as much as I did!
