For die-hard devotees and impatient onlookers, we’re bringing you exclusive behind-the-scenes coverage of the busy run-up to this important event.
With the gates set to open in less than 24 hours, the aisles throughout the exhibition centre are bustling with activity. Maintenance technicians are hard at work fitting the last few lamps and focusing the spotlights on the brightly polished cars. Everything has to be just right for the stars of the show. People are taking down scaffolding, vacuum cleaners are humming, bodywork is being buffed up. Everyone is all too aware that this is the final straight.
The Groupe Renault stands are no exception. The vehicles at the Renault stand are being edged into their final positions with microscopic precision. But New Scénic and New Mégane Estate are so well wrapped up that there’s no chance of getting the slightest hint of what either looks like before the big day tomorrow.
Over at Dacia’s end, the technicians are putting the finishing touches on a particularly colourful and welcoming stand.
The press conference is scheduled for midday tomorrow, and the rehearsals are in full swing as we leave the stand. The speeches are being fine-tuned, the prompter is being adjusted, the microphones are being tested, and the soundtrack calibrated. Everyone is deep in concentration.