La Electrified

The 2019 edition of the Los Angeles Los Auto Show had a distinct focus on electric vehicles

Written by Andre James

When the Los Angeles Auto Show debuted in 1907, Detroit’s Marvel Motor Company was advertising its Roadster, a two-seater runabout with 14 horsepower, as “a car of superior merit.” A century later, a 2020 Audi RS 6 Avant on display at the 2019 show packed a jawdropping 591 horsepower under the hood—a superior swag wagon.

Manufacturers from around the world increasingly use the LA Auto show to showcase their latest and greatest models. The show has also evolved to meet changing times, and now includes AutoMobility, the industry’s first trade show to combine technology and automotive sectors through new product launches, award programs, and panel discussions focused on pressing issues related to transportation and mobility.

The 2019 event, which took place from November 18 through December 1, made a concerted effort to increase

Jaguar Land Rover showcased its latest lineups from both brands. Outside, consumers had the opportunity to drive the all-electric I-PACE performance SUV, F-TYPE sports car and award-winning F-PACE SUV. Photo by Nick Dimbleby

awareness around electric vehicles (EV) and EV-ownership. The cumulative goal was to help consumers make informed decisions around alt-fuel options.

Nearly forty-percent of debut vehicles—including models from Audi, Ford, Karma Automotive, MINI Porsche, and Volkswagen—were hybrid or electric. Several manufacturers, including Jaguar, offered EV test drive opportunities, and other marques, such as Mercedes-Benz, displayed electric-powered models among their lineups. “With Los Angeles being the top EV and overall car-buying market in the U.S., our show is an ideal platform for automotive brands and EV | LA partners to educate and inspire consumers about EVs and EV-ownership,” said Terri Toennies, President of the LA Auto Show and AutoMobility LA.

The "Vision Mercedes Simplex," which debuted at the LA Auto show, is a sculpture by Mercedes-Benz intended to embody the heritage and future of the luxury brand.

Ford Motor Company Executive Chairman Bill Ford, left, and actor Idris Elba next to Ford Motor Co.’s allelectric Mustang Mach-E GT SUV.

Audi RS 6 Avant

Karma's says a pair of electric motors in its SC2 concept (left), send a combined 1,100 horsepower to all four wheels, enabling 0-60mph in 1.9 seconds. Lexus LF-30 Electrified concept vehicle

After a 30 year absence, Porsche announced that it would return to formula racing with the Porsche 99X Electric, which will compete in the 2019/2020 ABB FIA Formula E Championship.