Why this year's Frankfurt motorshow really does point to the future

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Why this year's Frankfurt motorshow really does point to the future

The IAA motor show at Frankfurt is one of the big three in Europe and this year it brings a heady mix of new models shown for the first time to the press and public. As well as the cars themselves, there are some notable trends. So straight back from the press days, what did we learn and which new cars were launched that you’ll be able to buy?

Trends

Electric cars are becoming accessible

Electrification of smaller, more affordable models with usable ranges means they are becoming a sensible option for an increasing number of customers. Production versions of the new Vauxhall Corsa-E, Honda e and Volkswagen e-up! are available to see the first time at Frankfurt.

Chinese brands are appearing

Red Flag, Wey (a premium marque owned by Great Wall), Byton and San Juan all make appearances at Frankfurt this year and while their cars are rather derivative in design, and most not yet geared for the mass European market, their presence will bring them important exposure.

Driver-less cars are here

They’re not available of course, but we are seeing concept cars with seating and no driver controls inside. Volkswagen presents its ID.Vision, Audi has four driverless variants including the IA:CON and Mercedes is showing its driverless bus.

Some companies aren't coming out to play

As you might expect, there is a strong presence from German manufacturers Mercedes-Benz, BMW and the Volkswagen Group but there are some significant absentees. PSA Group (DS, Peugeot and Citroen) didn’t bring their latest; nor did Volvo, Mazda, Kia, Toyota, Lexus or Mitsubishi. It shows car companies are seeking alternative routes to market their products and could signal the end of large, expensive shows

BMW's latest design language didn't win the hearts of journalists

We love our heritage

Tucked-away in Hall 4 are the heritage vehicles. The building is absolutely packed with an exciting and evocative range of classics from every era of motoring. There are too many to list, but highlights include an exceptional range of Mercedes-Benz models and and a delightful gathering of early Bugattis.

New cars you'll be able to buy

Many manufacturers are showing production models for the first time so we’ve selected our top cars with photos fresh from the show.

Land Rover Defender

The talk of the show has been Land Rover’s long-awaited Defender with clever design themes linking to its rich heritage. We love the commercial variant and can’t wait to see how capable it is on (and especially off) road.

Hyundai i10

While Hyundai displays its sharp-shaped 45 concept car, it’s the new i10 which draws the crowds. Larger than its predecessor, it blurs the lines between A and B segment in size.

Volkswagen ID.3

Golf-sized and all-electric, the ID.3 is hugely important for Volkswagen. It is almost identical to the Seat el-Born - with which it shares many parts - also on show at Frankfurt.

MINI Electric

In the 60th anniversary year for MINI, it debuts its all-electric model here at Frankfurt, promising up to 145 miles in range.

Vauxhall Corsa

Available with either a conventional engine or electric drivetrain, the Corsa is shown for the first time, and with both Vauxhall and Opel badging on the stand.

Honda e

If any car could be described as cute, it must be the all-electric Honda e. Sensible pricing and innovative design lend it huge appeal.

Porsche Taycan

Porsche presents its elegant, electric four-dour Taycan with up to 560 kW (equivalent to 751 bhp) for 0-62mph in 2.8 seconds in the flagship Turbo S model.

Lamborghini Sian FKP 37

When it comes to drama, little comes close to Lamborghini and its new Sian looks as whacky as any Lamborghini should. The Sian is the company’s first hybrid too.

Image credits: Andrew Wright @theMotorWriter

About the Author

Andrew is a freelance motoring journalist with a background in IT and the vehicle leasing industry. With a lifetime’s passion for all things automotive, he can be found behind the wheel of everything from vans to supercars. In addition to reviewing the latest vehicles and technology, Andrew also runs a couple of classic British motors. He lives at the edge of the Peak District with his son and cat.

Andrew Wright @theMotorWriter