AFTER a three-year hiatus, the Automotive Dealers’ Association (ADA) Motor Show opened at the National Arena in St Andrew in March.

Eighty new models were on show and several dealers unveiled their latest brand editions. The event ran for three days.

“We [the association] were very pleased with the show. It was an excellent performance by the dealers, financial institutions and all the participants involved,” Kent LaCroix, ADA chairman, told Auto. “I think we had about 10,000 persons over the three days, but the final figures are not yet in.”

Anthony Hylton, minister of industry, investment and commerce, said he was pleased to see the auto show on again after its cancellation since 2009.

“This has been traditionally the premiere event where we come to see what’s new and available in the market,” Hylton told Auto. “This year seems to make up for lost time, as there’s a wide variety of new vehicles on show.”

The minister said he was particularly impressed with the improved technology of the vehicle offerings.

“I’m delighted to see the innovation, the technology and the new, fuel-efficient vehicles which are now available that should have the additional impact of reducing fuel usage and emissions,” he said. “With the financing arrangement in place, we [the government] believe it will stimulate and drive the market.”