Aftermarket 2021: Trans Sport Show, Manila Auto Salon, Sport Truck Show
Rising again with three car shows in one under the new normal
Nearly two years in the making, Tradeshow International has managed to open the doors once again, allowing car enthusiasts to see the latest styling trends and trucks in the Philippines. While 11.11 is known as the grand sale of online shopping platforms Lazada and Shopee, it will henceforth be known as the comeback of car shows in the Philippines.
The long suspense has resulted in the Trans Sport Show, Manila Auto Salon, and Sport Truck Show events being held at the same time, all under one roof. While some opted to play it safe and watch from the sidelines, the event gathered over 70 cars, trucks, and SUVs in different shapes and sizes.
Import Hookup brought in some of their tastefully tuned and modified supercars and a G500 4x4-squared.
Japanese tuning fans can expect a handful of modified Nissan GT-Rs and GR Yaris.
As with any Philippine car show, there were several tuned Honda Civics on display; some were meticulously done, while some were a decent effort, to say the least.
What was visibly missing though, was the presence of old, nostalgic cars; perhaps a lot of the owners are of advanced age and staying safe. This Volkswagen Beetle of Gencarz Auto Restoration was the only oldie that was worthy of note.
“It’s been a really difficult two years for me and my team. I am very thankful to our venue partner SMX, the sponsors, participants, and media partners who continue to extend their support for us to be able to put together this event,” said Sophie Delos Santos, president of Tradeshow International.
Over at the Sport Truck Show segment, Autobot Autoworks brought in over a dozen towering pickups and SUVs to show off the new trends in styling.
Off-road industry pioneer 199 Off-Road House demonstrated their new suspension services and displayed some of their off-road and trail-ready work, as well.
Nissan brought it their all-new Almera and 370Z Nismo to entice tuning fans to "play" with their cars. Incidentally, custom vehicle newcomer Warrior Customodified showed off its work composed of Nissan LCVs.
To adapt to the government-mandated rules, Tradeshow has widened the walkways, limited the number of visitors inside the venue, and required the use of personal protection equipment to make it a safe environment for both exhibitors and visitors. Last but not least, visitors must be vaccinated to enter the venue.
The automotive industry has been one of the hardest-hit sectors as pandemic restrictions prevented people from moving around; some were hit harder and even lost their livelihood. The aftermarket scene was also greatly affected, but the show presents a glimmer of hope as the whole industry gets back on its feet once again.
“I would also like to thank the many car enthusiasts, young and old, that made their way to the show. I hope you never tire of coming to our shows,” added Delos Santos.
If you're curious and want to check out the cars yourself, the event is open until November 14, Sunday at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.
While the show may not be as grand and busy as the past couple of years, it is a positive step forward coming from nearly two years of uncertainty and despair.
We now look forward to seeing more shows in 2022, and hopefully more tasteful builds and restorations.
