LA Auto Show preview: Next-gen EVs take center-stage

The 2024 Los Angeles Auto Show is expected to be another showcase of what’s possible in the world of electric vehicles, from a new SUV to a cool compact with a bit of an LA fashion flair – along with a touch of digital retail.    

First things first: Amid all the scheduled reveals in LA this year, most of the buzz has been centered around Hyundai and its sister brand, Kia. Fiat will also unveil a new 500e variant at the show, which kicks off with media/press day on Nov. 21. and runs through Dec. 1.

Key highlights:

• Hyundai is expected to take the wraps off the 3-row Ioniq 9 EV.  Previously called the “7,” the full-size all-electric SUV will seek to build on the appeal of the Ioniq 5, which reached a sales mark of 30,000 units sold in Q3 2024.

• Kia – which set record EV sales again in October, surging 70% year-over-year, with over 17,700 units of its EV6 models sold in the U.S. — is believed to be revving up to unveil the new all-electric Kia EV4 at the LA auto gathering.  

• Fiat – which is still looking for ways to gain traction in the U.S., selling just 204 units of the new 500e as of early Sept. — will unveil the new 2025 Fiat 500e Giorgio Armani edition in LA, which features unique styling cues from the iconic fashion brand. 

Worth noting: Ford, Stellantis, and Volkswagen will also have multi-brand presentations, spotlighting several of their most current new models.

More than just cars: This year’s LA Auto Show goes beyond new models, featuring experiential exhibits and panel discussions on industry topics:

• Key panels will cover advancements in automotive design, digital retail, and workforce development, with speakers from companies like BMW, Genesis, Google, Karma Automotive, and Tekion Corp.

• “Camp Jeep” and “Bronco Mountain” will provide attendees with hands-on experiences of off-road vehicles, while the OVRLand Outpost and World Famous 4x4 displays cater to outdoor and custom build enthusiasts. 

Why it matters: While many auto shows have scaled back in recent years, the LA Auto Show continues to be a crucial event for the industry, especially given the significance of the Los Angeles car market for EVs. This year’s event showcases where the industry is headed — more EV options across price points, richer consumer experiences, and a push toward digital retail innovation. For automakers, it’s a testing ground for new models in one of the largest car-buying regions in the U.S. and a real-time gauge of shifting consumer sentiment.

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