If you attended the Washington, D.C. Auto Show last year and felt like something was missing compared to the pre-pandemic times, your intuition was accurate. Fortunately, the 2023 DC Auto Show has made a triumphant return to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, recapturing the essence of its past glory.
This year’s auto show promises to be a thrilling experience, featuring the latest electric vehicles, captivating concept cars, an enchanting display of exotic automobiles, opportunities to test drive vehicles at the show, and much more. The Washington, DC Auto Show kicks off today, Friday, January 20, and continues until Sunday, January 29.
Here are 12 compelling reasons to attend the 2023 DC Auto Show:
1. Explore Cutting-Edge Electric Vehicles (EVs): Regardless of whether you’re in the market for a new car, it’s impossible to ignore the inevitable shift toward electric vehicles. The majority of vehicle manufacturers participating in the show have prominently showcased their electric and hybrid models, demonstrating their commitment to a carbon-neutral future. The lower level of the show hosts the EV Pavilion, which serves as a platform for presenting the future of mobility, featuring electric vehicles, charging stations, and electric buses. Notably, don’t miss the 2023 Toyota Prius, which has undergone a remarkable transformation since its debut in 1997, showcasing Toyota’s dedication to innovation, style, and efficiency.
2. Discover Captivating Concept Cars: While the beloved TacoZilla from Toyota may not have returned this year, the show boasts a captivating lineup of new concept cars that are sure to capture your attention. One standout is the Toyota LQ, a concept vehicle designed to forge an emotional connection between the car and driver through advanced technology. It incorporates automated driving capabilities and an AI-powered interactive agent named “Yui” to deliver a personalized mobility experience. Additionally, Toyota presents two other concept vehicles, the FJ49 and Trailhunter, catering to the growing trend of overlanding in America. Overlanding involves self-reliant travel to remote destinations where the journey itself is the primary goal, often lasting for extended periods and spanning international boundaries.
3. Test Drive Vehicles: At the 2023 DC Auto Show, you have the unique opportunity to do more than just sit in a car; you can actually get behind the wheel and take a test drive. Toyota and Hyundai are offering visitors the chance to experience their vehicles firsthand. Toyota provides a fleet of vehicles for test drives, and you can sign up at their booth or at a designated tent. Hyundai, on the other hand, has set up a track in the Lower Hall where you can register to test drive the Hyundai IONIQ 5, an elegant electric SUV.
4. Embrace the Racing Experience: Forza enthusiasts and Mario Kart aficionados can elevate their racing skills with racing simulators available at the Toyota and Kia booths. Toyota’s race simulator is conveniently located near the entrance of their booth, while Kia offers the EV6 GT Driving Experience, featuring a 3-screen simulator with a seat mounted on hydraulics for a more immersive driving experience.
5. Understand the Dangers of Impaired Driving: Experience the sobering effects of impaired driving with the Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS) Drunk Driving Simulator. This interactive exhibit provides firsthand insight into the risks of delayed response and the effects of impaired vision when driving under the influence. It’s a powerful educational tool located on the lower level of the show.
6. Give a Home to a Rescue Dog: Subaru, known for its commitment to pets, brings its pet-friendly ethos to the DC Auto Show. Visit the Subaru Loves Pets exhibit to browse the latest vehicles and interact with shelter dogs from local rescue organizations. You might even find a furry friend to adopt and provide a forever home.
7. Witness Travis Pastrana’s Stunt: Discover the Subaru WRX STI that rally driver Travis Pastrana drove over Ego Alley in Annapolis in 2020. See if you can spot any battle scars and contemplate how he may have acquired them while watching the video replay in the booth.
8. Marvel at Exotic Cars: The Exotic Cars display at the show is a spectacle of luxury, speed, and power, featuring over 30 exceptional vehicles that are sure to leave you in awe.
9. Get Nostalgic with Classic Cars: The Classic Car Club section pays tribute to timeless classics. This year’s collection includes models from Cadillac & LaSalle Club Potomac Region, National Capital Region Mustang Club, and Corvette Club of America.
10. Get Inspired to Customize Your Vehicle: If you’ve ever watched “Pimp My Ride” or dreamt of collaborating with West Coast Customs to create your dream vehicle, the show’s extensive collection of cars with custom paint jobs, stylish rims, and enhanced sound systems will surely ignite your imagination for vehicle modifications.
11. Polish Your Golf Swing: Take a break from the automotive wonders and practice your golf swing at the CitySwing truck, part of the Get Outdoors section. This interactive golf simulator offers a taste of outdoor golfing through advanced technology.
12. Ride an Electric Bike: Explore the future of mobility with electric bikes. The EV Pavilion on the lower level features a Test Track by ElectriCity Bikes. You can sign up to test ride bikes from various brands and experience their motors, handling, and acceleration on a 9,000 square foot track. Helmets are provided.
About the 2023 DC Auto Show:
The Washington, DC Auto Show runs from Friday, January 20, to Sunday, January 29. Tickets are available for purchase on the Auto Show’s website. Here are the full show hours and admission prices:
Show Hours:
- Friday, January 20: 12:00 noon – 9:00 pm
- Saturday, January 21: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
- Sunday, January 22: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Monday, January 23 to Thursday, January 26: 12:00 noon – 8:00 pm
- Friday, January 27: 12:00 – 9:00 pm
- Saturday, January 28: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
- Sunday, January 29: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Admission Prices:
- Adults (13 and up):
- $12 on weekdays (Jan. 23-27, 2023)
- $15 on weekends (Jan. 21, 22, 28, 29)
- Children (age 6-12): $6 every day
- Children 5 and under: Free
Special Prices and Discounts:
- Military Tribute Day – Tuesday, January 24: Free with Military ID or DD214
- Student Day, Presented by Toyota – Friday, January 27: $7 off with valid student ID
- Metro SmarTrip Card Discount: $2 off weekday tickets with valid Metro SmarTrip Card
- Seniors Discount: Seniors (65+) receive $4 off any weekday (January 23-27) and $2 off any weekend (Jan. 21, 22, 28, 29)
- Students Discount: Students receive $4 off any weekday (Jan. 23-27) by presenting a student
