Munich to host the new-style IAA 2021

Munich is now set to host the completely redesigned IAA. Today the VDA’s Managing Board decided that the VDA would continue negotiating with the Bavarian state capital over the next few weeks with a view to concluding a contract on holding the IAA from 2021.

“Munich has beaten off the competition from Berlin and Hamburg. All three cities that had made it onto the shortlist of possible locations presented very ambitious and convincing plans for continuing the IAA’s development together with the VDA,” said VDA President Hildegard Müller, adding: “It was a very close race, and for this I sincerely wish to thank those involved.”

The IAA will continue evolving from a motor show into a mobility platform. As well as showcasing the fascination of the car, it is expected to trigger for the host city’s development into a ‘smart city’ with intelligent traffic concepts and innovative connectivity linking the various modes of transport – in a manner that is both sustainable and geared to people’s needs. In the opinion of the VDA’s Managing Board, the city of Munich and its concept offer the best conditions for this – and thus for the relaunch of the IAA.

Munich’s advantages include the inner city and highly attractive event locations close to the center that can become a stage for the IAA. These locations are to be connected with the modern trade fair grounds via a transfer route including priority lanes for environmentally friendly vehicles. This will enable the VDA not only to hold the IAA in the exhibition halls but also to take it onto the roads, into the city and thus directly to the people.

With its high level of technological activity, strong industrial base and numerous hi-tech corporations and innovative automotive companies, Munich is an excellent partner for the new-style IAA. The city is regarded as a leading hub of innovation in Germany and boasts an industrial mix with a uniquely wide variety.

For several years the city administration has already been developing Munich into a ‘smart city’ in virtually all areas of everyday life, but with a focus on sustainable mobility solutions. The Bavarian capital has an exceptionally good traffic infrastructure, is connected with destinations round the globe, and offers significant expertise in organizing major events.