Paris Motor Show 2026: From 1898 to the Cars of Tomorrow

Paris has been fascinated by the motor car from the very beginning. In 1898, the French capital hosted what is considered the world’s first motor show, bringing together manufacturers and curious visitors at the Jardin des Tuileries to see the latest developments in this remarable new invention.

Even in those early days, there was no single vision for the future of motoring. Petrol powered cars appeared alongside electric vehicles, including electric cabs from French manufacturer Jeantaud. Some early electric models could already travel impressive distances for their time, proving that many of the questions we are asking about the future of the car, from how vehicles are powered to how far they can travel, have been around for more than a century.

As the automobile evolved, it gradually became part of everyday French life. Cars opened up new possibilities for travel, from family holidays and weekend escapes to exploring the countryside beyond the cities. French manufacturers such as Renault, Peugeot and Citroën helped shape this motoring culture, producing models that became enduring symbols of France, from the practical Citroën 2CV to the much loved Renault 4.

Today, the car is entering another period of transformation. More than 125 years after that pioneering exhibition, Paris is once again preparing to showcase the latest ideas, technologies and vehicles shaping the future of motoring.

The Paris Motor Show returns

From 12 to 18 October 2026, the Paris Motor Show will return to Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, bringing together major manufacturers from France and around the world.

French marques including Renault, Dacia, Alpine, Peugeot, Citroën and DS will be joined by manufacturers from across Europe, North America and Asia. Among the international names taking part are Ford, Lucid, Volkswagen, Audi, Mercedes, Volvo, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, BYD and XPeng.

The show will also look beyond the traditional motor car, bringing together companies working across energy, infrastructure, technology and new mobility. Visitors will be able to discover the latest models and innovations, while a dedicated test area will offer the chance to get behind the wheel of selected exhibiting brands.

Beyond the cars themselves, this year’s programme is designed to make the show an experience in its own right. Visitors can discover autonomous driving at the new Autonomous Lab, admire prestigious and rare vehicles in the 700m² (Un)limited area, and enjoy a packed programme of entertainment. Radio FG DJs will provide live sets throughout the week, while evening laser shows will bring together music, lights and pyrotechnics. There will also be a touch of motoring nostalgia courtesy of the Tao Love Bus, a vintage van transformed into a travelling musical performance.

There is also an opportunity for France Today readers to experience the event for themselves. We have teamed up with the Mondial de l’Auto to give away 10 pairs of tickets to the 2026 show. Each winning pair provides admission for two people on one day between Tuesday 13 and Friday 16 October, subject to availability.

The Paris Motor Show takes place from 12 to 18 October 2026 at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. So, whether you have a lifelong passion for French cars, an interest in the future of mobility or simply fancy discovering something different during an autumn trip to Paris, the 2026 show offers a chance to see the latest chapter in a story that began in the French capital more than a century ago.

Win tickets to the Mondial de l’Auto 2026: