The New York International Auto Show is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a spectacular showcase of vintage, classic, and iconic vehicles that tell the story of America’s love affair with the automobile at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan (April 18-27). For 125 years, the New York Auto Show has been more than just an exhibition—it has been a driving force behind automotive innovation and culture.
As the first auto show in North America, it set the stage for the industry’s evolution, introducing groundbreaking technologies from the first mass-produced cars to the earliest electric vehicles over a century ago.
In 1900, New York City was abuzz with innovation and possibility. The dawn of the 20th century saw the rise of a brand-new invention-the automobile. While horse-drawn carriages still filled the streets, a handful of visionaries saw the future, and they wanted to show it to the world.
Enter The First Annual Automobile Show, held at the original Madison Square Garden; it became the epicenter of a revolution as the first-ever New York Auto Show roared to life. With over 160 gleaming vehicles on display, the event captivated nearly 50,000 visitors.
The Show was a spectacle of innovation, showcasing everything from steam-powered delivery wagons to electric cars with “Electrant” charging stations offering a 25-mile recharge for just a quarter. It even featured a dramatic 53-foot-high hill climb to prove which vehicles could conquer the toughest terrain and a 20-foot-wide wooden track where daring drivers demonstrated the power and reliability of their new machines.
The event wasn’t just about marveling at machines— it sparked a fierce debate about the future of transportation. Would gasoline, steam, or electric power reign supreme?
Since then, the New York Auto Show has stood as a beacon of automotive innovation and progress. As we commemorate our 125th anniversary in 2025, this special exhibition invites you on a journey through time, showcasing the evolution of the automobile and the pivotal role our show has played in shaping the industry.
About the New York International Automobile Show: Since 1900, New York has been the staging location of North America’s oldest and largest-attended auto show. For 125 years, the New York International Auto Show continues to be the best place to experience and learn about new products the auto industry offers. Each year, the show provides millions of car buyers with the largest display of cars and trucks in one location in a unique experience. No other venue offers such a comprehensive and engaging forum, where new technology and designs can be viewed, explored, and enjoyed.
It was a well-attended show, Car companies from all over the world, showcasing and debuting cars at the NY Auto show 2025 and also see World Car Award winners.
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