Munich auto show comes to close after drawing over 500,000 visitors

This year's auto show in Munich drew more than 500,000 visitors, slightly surpassing the 2023 figure, organizers said at the event's close on Sunday.

Nearly 750 exhibitors from 73 countries took part in the nearly week-long IAA Mobility auto show.

The focus was on new electric models from German brands and a record presence from their Chinese competitors. The tough economic climate and the European Union's planned phase-out of combustion-engine vehicles were key topics of debate.

The show was accompanied by protests and rallies staged by environmental groups and climate activists. They accused the trade fair of promoting a car-dominated future that will harm people and nature.

The IAA relocated from Frankfurt to Munich in 2021. Organizers hailed this year’s edition as a success, saying the strong visitor numbers showed the concept was being well received.