Auto Trader

A massive amount of effort had to go into the organisation of the event. Auto Trader’s Adrian Hearn spoke to show organiser Nigel Wonnacott (pictured) about how the show is going, his expectations, disappointments and his favourite part so far.

It’s another boiling hot day in London but luckily the ExCeL Centre is air-conditioned, which makes the day a much more enjoyable experience for the visitors. It also makes the event more pleasant for Nigel Wonnacott.

Nigel is one of the organisers of the event and it’s a hell of an event to coordinate. But so far everything is going to plan.

“It’s been a good start to the show,” says Nigel. We’re very encouraged by the reactions we’ve had from the media. We’ve had some fantastic premieres and there are some brilliant attractions.”

The organisers bandy the phrase ‘The cars are the real stars,’ but non-motor related attractions are also playing an important role.

“Last night we had the first Dock Rock concert with A-Ha which was excellent. These acts give people the chance to be entertained in the evening as well,” says Nigel.

For the last 30 years the Birmingham NEC had been the host but changes were made after manufacturers started pulling out of the event.

This year’s return to the capital has ensured comebacks for some of the industry’s biggest marques including BMW. A successful show could prompt this year’s absentees to commit to 2008.

Nigel said: “I am disappointed the whole industry isn’t supporting the show this year. I don’t think 2004 was a great show for manufacturers and there were concerns about committing to 2006.

“However, we do have BMW back with a world premiere of the M6 and I am sure this show will help encourage manufacturers to commit to 2008,” Nigel added.

Critics said holding the show in London’s Docklands would be awkward for visitors but transport doesn’t seem to be a problem so far.

“By all accounts the Docklands Light Railway is running smoothly,” says Nigel. “All the signs are very positive so far.”

“At the NEC in Birmingham we had train strikes and lots of traffic on the motorway. Here we are in London and many have suggested there will be problems with people getting in and out but so far it has gone very smoothly,” says Nigel.

Why should people come to the show this year? Well Nigel is confident enough the ExCeL has everything on offer.

“Motoring fans and people of the industry come to the show because they want to see new metal.”

“We’ve got new metal and good British cars like the Jaguar making their world debut.”

So what cars get the man behind organising one of the world’s largest motor shows hot under the collar?

Nigel says: “I love Ferraris and Aston Martins. I think I must have seen a James Bond film which sparked my love for them. The DB9 is simply amazing.

“I love cars, I love the industry and I love the Motor Show.”

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