“Our show continues to place a strong emphasis on electric vehicles and sustainability with the primary goal of introducing South Floridians to the newest EVs on the market”, said Koebel.
We had an exclusive interview with Debra Koebel, the president of the South Florida Automobile Dealers Association, who answered some questions about the exciting new features coming to the Miami International Auto Show 2023. With her vast expertise and knowledge in the automotive industry, she shed light on the captivating and innovative elements that will be featured at the event.
Electric Cars: What is the Miami Auto Show going to bring us back in this year’s version?
Debra Koebel: Returning in 2023 is the “MIAS EV Test Track” which made its debut last year to large and enthusiastic crowds. Our show continues to place a strong emphasis on electric vehicles and sustainability with the primary goal of introducing South Floridians to the newest EVs on the market. Among the lines we expect to be represented on the MIAS EV Test Track this year are Cadillac, Nissan, Ford, Hummer, Volkswagen, Rivian, and Polestar. We are thrilled that Hyundai’s indoor EV Test Track, “It’s Your Journey Course,” will return and feature their popular IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 models.
EC: What are the most prominent car brands and manufacturers that will participate in the Miami Auto Show this year?
DK: We expect to have more auto manufacturers exhibiting their newest vehicles at our show than in recent years. Honda, Infiniti, and Lexus should participate in the 2023 show along with a host of other lines. Some of the manufacturers planning major vehicle introductions at the show include Nissan which will exhibit its Nissan Z Nismo for the first time at a U.S. auto show and Jeep which will show-off its new Wrangler.
“Several auto manufacturers will again be hosting Ride & Drives just outside the entrance to the show”, said Debra Koebel.
EC: What kind of activities and interactive experiences will the Miami Auto Show offer attendees to get up close and personal with the latest automotive models and technologies?
DK: Several auto manufacturers will again be hosting Ride & Drives just outside the entrance to the show, encouraging attendees to get behind the wheel of their newest vehicles. Product specialists at each of the exhibits share valuable information on vehicle safety and technologies to better prepare our attendees for their car buying decisions.
We are pleased that such crowdpleasing exhibits as Memory Lane, South Florida Rides, and Car Boutique will again entertain attendees visiting the show.
EC: How do you think people have taken the issue of electric cars today?
DK: Based on the long lines to ride in an electric vehicle at our test tracks last year, I think people are very curious about what the EV revolution is all about and are looking to our show to better educate them on the benefits of owning an electric vehicle. As of December 2021, about 2.3 million electric cars were on U.S. roads with the greatest number in California followed by Florida. Those numbers will only continue to rise in the future.
EC: Do you think that there are still many people who opt for conventional cars and do not pay much attention to the new electric cars?
DK: Since we are still in the transition and learning phase, many auto buyers are opting for conventional cars. As the auto industry educates consumers on the new technologies associated with hybrids and EVs, we anticipate the number of EV users will continue to rise each year. In 2023, EV sales are expected to account for 6.5 percent of the U.S. auto market while conventional autos will make up the difference.
EC: How could the Miami Auto Show contribute to promoting greater awareness of sustainable mobility and the benefits of electric vehicles?
DK: The Miami International Auto Show is considered one of the longest lasting signature events in South Florida. For over 50 years, the show has managed to give back to its community whether through its on-going philanthropic program benefiting so many local charities or public service campaigns such as “Don’t Booze and Cruise” a few years ago. When it unveiled its EV Test Track in 2022, the show made a commitment to better educate First Responders from Miami Dade and Broward counties on how best to diffuse a dangerous situation when an EV is involved in an accident on South Florida’s roadways. It organized and hosted a First Responders Forum where well-informed automotive representatives were invited to offer valuable information on safety. More than 250 area First Responders attended last year’s First Responders Forum, and another is scheduled in conjunction with the 2023 Auto Show.
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