The 91st edition of the Mondial de l’Automobile is set to welcome approximately fifty manufacturers from October 12 to 18, 2026, at the Porte de Versailles Exhibition Park in Paris. This biennial event aims to match or exceed the 500,000 visitors recorded during the 2024 edition.
Renault and Stellantis to Lead the Exhibition
The Renault and Stellantis groups are expected to dominate the exhibition, each occupying areas exceeding 5,000 square meters. Renault plans to showcase 22 electrified vehicles and several concept cars, while Stellantis will exhibit around sixty vehicles across eight different brands, covering an area equivalent to 75% of a football field.
Serge Gachot, the director of the Mondial, emphasized the significance of this gathering for the industry, despite the notable absence of some major players. He particularly regretted the stance of the Japanese group Toyota, which will not have a traditional stand.
“Except for Toyota!” exclaimed Serge Gachot, head of the Mondial. He pointed out a lack of cohesion from the Japanese brand, reminding that Toyota has a factory in Valenciennes and is part of the Automotive Platform. “They don’t want to play collectively, but too bad for them, and it’s all the more regrettable as they are associate members of the Automotive Platform and have a factory in France, in Valenciennes,” affirmed Serge Gachot.
Chinese Manufacturers and Technological Innovations
In addition to historical manufacturers, the show will feature a strong Chinese delegation with about twenty brands present. The organization is also banking on major technological innovations to attract the public and ensure exhibitor profitability.
“We would never have been able to revive the Mondial without Renault,” declared Serge Gachot. The salon plans dedicated zones for qualified test drives for future buyers and will focus on autonomous vehicles. This technology is considered by the management as the highlight of this edition.
“Even at the back of Hall 4, there will be manufacturers!” specified Serge Gachot. Among the expected novelties, the Renault Pro+ division will unveil the Trafic E-Tech electric, equipped with 800-volt charging. Dacia will present its Striker estate car, while Alpine will provide details on the future of the A110. “New elements concerning the next generation of the Alpine A110, an icon of the brand,” indicated Alpine’s press release.
Finally, Serge Gachot anticipates a strong visual impact thanks to the driverless driving demonstrations planned during the week. The objective is to make a lasting impression on the visitors expected at Porte de Versailles. “We are aiming for a gigantic ‘wow’ effect,” insisted Serge Gachot.
The Mondial de l’Auto 2026 promises to be a pivotal event for the automotive industry, showcasing the latest advancements in electric and autonomous vehicle technology, and bringing together a diverse range of global manufacturers. Despite some notable absences, the organizers are confident in achieving their visitor targets and delivering a memorable experience for car enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
