My last visit to Washington, D.C. for an in-person event was back in March 2019 when I had the opportunity to speak at the Travel and Adventure Show. Little did I know that it was just five days before the onset of the pandemic that would bring everything to a sudden halt. The irony of this situation crossed my mind as I set foot in the DC Convention Center once more, this time to attend the 2022 Washington DC Auto Show. I had been quite cautious about returning to in-person events, but I thought the auto show, especially during its media days, might be a good place to ease back into the in-person scene. Truth be told, I had genuinely missed stepping out of the house and participating in events.
Here are six compelling reasons why you should consider attending the 2022 DC Auto Show, even if you’ve had reservations like me. Strict COVID protocols and mask requirements, a showcase of the latest electric vehicles, Toyota’s impressive display of race cars, a jaw-dropping collection of exotic cars, the chance to adopt rescue dogs, and more make this year’s auto show a must-visit event. The Washington, DC Auto Show is scheduled to run from Friday, January 21st to Sunday, January 30th. Tickets are currently available for purchase, so read on to get the inside scoop on this year’s show and a sneak peek at the automotive delights you can expect to see.
1. Strict COVID Protocols and Innovative Safety Measures: The event organizers have implemented stringent COVID protocols and innovative safety measures in accordance with the directives set by Mayor Muriel Bowser and the District of Columbia. These measures require all guests aged 12 and older to provide proof of vaccination along with corresponding identification upon entry. A dedicated team of security personnel will guide you through the verification process and issue a wristband, allowing you to proceed and present your ticket for access. I appreciated the thoroughness of the staff in checking documentation and ensuring that everyone wore masks. It’s worth noting that individuals without a mask, despite having valid documentation, were not permitted to enter. Once inside, the DC Auto Show has taken extra precautions to enhance sanitation. Additional hand washing stations have been provided, and high-touch areas are regularly cleaned and disinfected. The convention center has taken a pioneering step by using Synexis, an HVAC solution that purifies the indoor air, while an Adibot robot employs ultraviolet UV-C lighting for disinfection. Despite these enhanced safety measures, it’s advisable to carry your own hand sanitizer and wipes.
2. Learn About Electric Vehicles at the EV Pavilion: If you’ve been contemplating the switch to an electric vehicle, a visit to the EV Pavilion is a must. Sponsored by Electrify America, the nation’s largest open ultra-fast DC charging network for electric vehicles, this pavilion is designed to educate consumers about the future of mobility. You can gain insights into electric vehicles and explore models from 2022, including the 2022 Karma GS6, 2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid, McLaren’s Artura, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Nissan Leaf, and Jeep Wrangler 4xe. And if your first stop is at Toyota, you won’t miss the 2023 bZ4X, prominently displayed at the upper-level hall entrance. This fully electric vehicle boasts an impressive range of 250 miles per charge and is a true beauty!
3. A Vehicle for Everyone at Toyota: Toyota has an impressive lineup of vehicles showcased in the upper hall, catering to the preferences of every family member. Beyond the 2023 bZ4X electric vehicle, you’ll be captivated by the stunning blue hydrogen-powered Mirai, which piques curiosity about this innovative technology behind zero-emission vehicles. The Mirai operates on hydrogen, emitting only water as a by-product. If you’re wondering about refueling with hydrogen, rest assured—it’s a process similar to filling up with gasoline. Across the aisle, you’ll find Tacozilla, a retro custom camper built on a Tacoma TD Sport platform. Crafted at Toyota’s Motorsports garage, its exterior features retro 70s stripes, while the interior resembles a compact RV, offering a home away from home during your adventures. I’ve already expressed my interest to the folks at Toyota, as I believe this vehicle could be perfect for my husband and me when we become empty nesters in a couple of years. It’s just the right size for the two of us and our faithful companion, Goldie the Dog! On the adjacent side, Toyota proudly presents an array of race cars that will awaken your inner Ricky Bobby. My 15-year-old son, in particular, spent a substantial amount of time inspecting the features of the racing Supras, which you’d typically only see racing around tracks at breakneck speeds. He relished the opportunity to peek under the hood of the GT4 prototype, and of course, numerous photos were snapped for his InstaStory!
4. Adopt a Pet from Subaru Loves Pets: For dog enthusiasts like us, Subaru’s commitment to pets shines at the DC Auto Show. Located at the end of Hall A, you’ll discover the Subaru Loves Pets exhibit. Here, you can explore the latest Subaru vehicles and have the chance to meet, play with, and even adopt one of the shelter dogs during specified times of the day. From Friday, January 21st to the closing day on Sunday, January 30th, local animal shelters such as Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, Homeward Trails Adoption Center, K9 Life Savers, Humane Rescue Alliance, and SPCA of Anne Arundel County will bring their dogs for families to provide a forever home to. For detailed information on Subaru Loves Pets adoption times, refer to the provided schedule.
5. Droolworthy Exotic Cars: If exotic cars are your passion, you won’t want to miss the Exotic Car Display located downstairs. This section features renowned brands including Aston Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, Rolls Royce, and Bug
