We’re almost a month into the new decade and it is already proving to be an exciting time for the automotive industry and auto manufacturers have an exciting line up of new vehicle models on offer to kick off 2020.
In many respects, we anticipate this will once again be the year of the SUV. For the first time ever, sales of sport utility vehicles surpassed the 900,000 mark in Canada. We expect to see this trend continue in 2020, especially with all the new models on the market, including the Ford Bronco, one of the most anticipated vehicles in recent years. The iconic nameplate returns after years of speculation and a hiatus since 1996.
New for 2020 is the Kia Telluride, which features a 3.8 liter V6 engine and generates 291 horsepower with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It also comes with family-friendly technologies – an ever-important feature in vehicles, including a spacious third row seating area.
2020 is also going to be a significant year for new electric vehicles (EV) in the marketplace. Last year, a major milestone was realized, as government celebrated the fact that 30,000 EVs are now travelling BC’s roads and highways. And in British Columbia, we have seen transactions recorded through the CEVforBC™ incentive program grow from a modest total of 567 in 2013, but increase substantially in each subsequent year. By 2017, EV sales totaled 3,500 before rising dramatically to 8,500 in 2018. The Program paid out for 14,400+ EVs for 2019.
One of the new EV’s that is sure to be a hot ticket item is the Ford Mustang Mach-E. The design will mimic its iconic Mustang is a 332-horsepower all-wheel-drive, and mileage will range from 210 (AWD) to 230 (RWD) miles. One of the most exciting features, beyond its mileage, is the use of Artificial Intelligence. It will monitor your habits and then make suggestions based on that information. It will also allow users to state various commands in particular with the GPS system. What a future!
In 2020, environmentally friendly vehicles will continue to be important to consumers – as well as new technologies that make the automotive experience more convenient.
Toyota’s GR Supra is a fun car to keep your eye on this year. It pays homage to the vintage Toyota design, but packs 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that channels 335 horsepower.
You can expect to see some of these cars and many more at the special 100-year celebration of the Vancouver International Auto Show – at Convention Centre West, from March 25 to March 29, 2020.
Check out the latest in vehicle unveils and find something that suits your unique lifestyle at this milestone event. For more information on the Show and to purchase tickets, visit www.VancouverInternationalAutoShow.com.
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].
