New Delhi, January 30, 2020: In the run up to Auto Expo 2020, the largest Indian automobile extravaganza, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) today announced its partnership with Facebook. This partnership will not just bring alive the event experience at the Auto Expo, but also take it beyond the confines of the venue, to auto-enthusiasts across the country. Facebook has been working closely with industry leaders to enable customized solutions for auto brands, and the Auto Expo will provide a platform to take those conversations forward. 

Scheduled from the 7th-12th February 2020, at the India Expo Mart in Greater Noida, Auto Expo 2020 carries the theme of ‘Explore the World of Mobility’, which summarizes the prospects of technology, capability, and the vision of mobility for tomorrow – safer, cleaner, connected, bespoke, and shared. 

The partnership with Facebook will allow a larger audience to experience the latest from the mobility ecosystem on Facebook and its family of apps - new launches from participating brands, new emission technology, safety standards, and the latest from the start-ups of the industry. 

In the words of Mr. Rajan Wadhera, President, SIAM, “As we enter a new decade of market growth, consumer behavior, and decision making, it is important that the automobile industry takes a lead in understanding and engaging with our present and prospective customers better. Hence, the partnership with Facebook is a natural fit. They are the world's leading social platform and will bring huge value to the Auto Expo as a show, which is not only about motors but also about mobility." 

 Facebook has been at the forefront of having industry leading conversations and is committed to reducing consumer friction across the purchase journey for both four-wheeler and two-wheeler purchases. The partnership will involve structured engagement with members of the auto industry on leveraging digital to unlock business growth. Mobile is expected to influence 8 out of 10 four-wheeler and 7 out of 10 two-wheeler purchases by 2022. Facebook is also expected to influence nearly one in two purchases of both four-wheelers and two wheelers by 2022.* 

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Prasanjeet Dutta Baruah, Vertical Head - Tech, Telecom & Automotive at Facebook India, said, “Facebook and Instagram are platforms where people pursue and share their passions. We partner with brands from across industries, including auto, to help forge meaningful connections between businesses and their audiences so they can engage in the most relevant way, and achieve measurable business results. We are committed to enabling the auto industry move forward, and are looking forward to conversations with industry leaders and brands during the Expo.”

“We’re honored to partner with SIAM to bring alive the experience of being at the Auto Expo through interactive formats and ‘Live’ sessions by leading auto influencers for not just those present at the venue but also for the large community of auto-enthusiasts across the country,”added Baruah.

The partnership will entail regular programming on AutoExpo2020’s Facebook and Instagram handles with a special emphasis on FB and IG ‘Lives’ covering the latest news and events from the venue. The Expo will also be attended by leading creators and influencers from the auto industry who will showcase their top moments in a bid to connect with enthusiasts from across the country. The people present at the venue can also visit dedicated Instagram booths to enjoy AR and VR experiences. Facebook will kick-off its partnership with SIAM with an exclusive event for the leading auto brands and experts on Thursday, 6th February.