Friday 21 October 2016

Paris Motor Show 2016


Renaut Zoe: 400km 100% electric. Now!
The biennial Mondial de l’Automobile 2016 took place in October at the Porte de Versailles Exhibition Centre in Paris. The major European motor shows have usually involved an intense period of activity preparing translations, marketing materials and press packs during my career. I relished the chance to relax and enjoy the show in Paris.

Renault’s stand caught my attention. It was colourful, open and easily accessible. Green cars featured prominently at the Paris Show - especially on the Renault stand. Renault demonstrated how much progress has been made in electric technology. A European map also displayed how many recharge points are now available. I was sorely tempted to take a test drive in a Zoe. I later discovered that Zoe was the best-seller at the show.




Digital technology was everywhere you looked.

In the cars …


Pic on computer alongside stearing wheel inside Toyota Prius
Tech inside Toyota Prius
… above the cars…


Pic of rows of overhead digital screens on Honda stand
Overhead digital screens on Honda stand
All around the cars in fact.


Pic of customer and Toyota staff noting details in front of Toyota Yaris Made in France
Customer by Toyota Yaris with Made in France label

Excellent use was made of tablets to provide information and take customer details (as above).

Other highlights included:

  • Peugeot's 3 different virtual reality options - I chose assisted driving features.
  • Audi's use of digital.
  • Kia’s flash mob dance choreographed to a surfing video.
  • Samsung’s Le Mans circuit in virtual reality.
Pic of Audi's colourful digital tech stand with show visitors
Audi's colourful use of digital on their stand

It was a great day at a fantastic show in a superb, modern exhibition complex. The centre was well-planned and accessible. The wide walkways catered for the many disabled visitors who whizzed past me in motorised wheelchairs. Security was tight, highly visible and thorough without excessive queuing. There were plenty of hotels within walking distance and ample parking.

Porte de Versailles, I’m sure I'll be back soon.


Karen Andrews is a
freelance French to 
English translator/
transcreator with 
a background in
marketing and project
management.

Email Karen for further information via karenanglicityen@gmail.com in French, German or English.