The Chicago Auto Show returns to McCormick Place, and more than 200,000 visitors are expected to explore the latest models and innovations from two dozen automakers.
“I’ve gone for the last 5 years,” said Robby Loquercio, a Saint Ignatius Senior and car enthusiast. “I am excited for the supercar gallery and the concept vehicles.”
The “supercar gallery” is a showroom in the Auto Show containing dozens of ultra-high-performance and ultra-pricey sports cars and grand tourers, according to the Auto Show’s Instagram page. The most expensive car at the show is the 2025 Rolls-Royce Black Badge Specter, with a price exceeding $700,000 before options. The gallery will include “numerous Maserati, Aston Martin, McLaren, and Lamborghini vehicles,” according to NBC News.
Another highly anticipated feature of the Auto Show is the concept vehicles. Concept vehicles are prototypes and contain futuristic design elements. According to Wikipedia, concept cars are exhibited at motor shows to gauge customer reaction to new and radical designs, which may or may not be produced.
Loquerico is also excited for the black-tie fundraiser event. This event happens on the Friday before the week of the Auto Show. “People can donate to Chicagoland charities and have the opportunity to win cars in a raffle,” said Loquerico. People can attend either by invitation from a dealership connected to the show or by paying the $325 premium ticket price.
The Auto Show also offers a family zone aimed at entertaining children ages two to 16. Included in this zone, Sim Drive Chicago hosts a “professional-grade racing simulator experience.”
“Sim racing is a computer simulation of motorsport that is used both recreationally and professionally,” Saint Ignatius student Ashok Chacko said. “I have been sim racing for almost 8 years and am excited to try the Sim Drive setup.”
All photos were taken and edited by JD Giannis.
