CATA News

The 2026 Chicago Auto Show came to a successful close on Monday, Feb. 16, after a 10-day run at McCormick Place. The 118th edition of the show welcomed 211,850 attendees to experience the latest cars, trucks and SUVs, cutting-edge automotive technology and electrified mobility, producing more than 102,000 in-vehicle experiences across indoor and outdoor activations.

Manufacturers from across the industry showcased their newest models and innovations, giving consumers the opportunity to compare vehicles side-by-side and engage directly with brand experts. Notable vehicles at the show included the 2026 Cadillac Celestiq, 2026 Honda Prelude, 2026 Jeep Recon, 2027 Kia Telluride, 2027 RAM 1500 SRT TRX, 2026 Subaru Outback and 2026 Toyota RAV4. Concept vehicles like the Chevrolet Corvette CX Concept and Tesla Robotaxi also drew significant attention on the show floor, highlighting the industry’s continued focus on design, performance and future mobility solutions.

Four immersive indoor test tracks and daily outdoor test drives provided attendees with hands-on opportunities to experience the latest vehicles firsthand. The fan-favorite Camp Jeep returned with its signature off-road course, offering thrill rides that demonstrated Jeep’s legendary 4x4 capability on a dynamic indoor obstacle track. Ford’s “Built Wild” experience once again highlighted the Bronco family’s off-road prowess, while the Chicago Drives Electric track, powered by ComEd, allowed guests to ride in a wide range of battery-electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles.

New for 2026, the Chicago Drives gas-powered track debuted on the show floor, giving attendees an additional passenger-seat experience featuring gas and hybrid models. Combined with outdoor test drives from participating manufacturers including Alfa Romeo, Dodge, Ford, Jeep, Ram, Subaru, Tesla and Toyota, the expanded offerings reinforced the show’s commitment to interactive, hands-on engagement.

“Each year we strive to make the Chicago Auto Show more immersive and relevant for today’s consumers,” said Chicago Auto Show General Manager Jennifer Morand. “From hands-on test tracks to dynamic new exhibits, the show gave attendees countless opportunities to explore, compare and experience the latest advancements in the automotive space.”

New and returning specialty exhibits further elevated the show experience. Making its debut, Chi-Town Alley brought Chicago’s vibrant car culture to life through an immersive, high-energy display featuring performance vehicles, custom builds, street-inspired rides and exotics. The exhibit also showcased six locally selected vehicles from the inaugural Chi-Town Alley Showcase contest, where the fan-voted winner, Tim Mejias, was ultimately named and recognized for his 1997 BMW M3. As part of the honor, Mejias received an invitation to return and display his winning vehicle at the 2027 Chicago Auto Show. Attendees could also enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at filmmaker and car enthusiast Sung Kang’s upcoming film “DRIFTER,” including two versions of the film’s hero car, “Lola.”

Returning exhibits also drew strong engagement throughout the show’s run. Overlanding Chicago expanded its footprint with additional demonstrations, specialty vehicles and upfitting vendors focused on adventure-ready builds and the overlanding lifestyle. For the first time, participating Overlanding exhibitors camped overnight on the show floor, transforming the exhibit into a city-style campsite complete with activities like hide-and-seek, story time and “campfire” snacks. The Family Zone once again provided a dedicated, family-friendly space with interactive activities including a kids’ Power Wheels track, Sim Drive racing simulators, car seat demonstrations with Britax and hands-on play areas designed to engage younger attendees while immersing them in the auto show environment.

This year’s themed days and special events attracted enthusiastic crowds and diverse audiences. The Miles Per Hour Run returned as a unique indoor running experience through the show floor, drawing more than 800 participants from 12 different states. Automotive Career Day welcomed nearly 2,000 students from across the Chicagoland area, offering a firsthand look at the wide range of opportunities within the automotive industry. Chicago Friday Night Flights also returned as a one-of-a-kind craft beer sampling event paired with live music and full access to the show.

“Chicagoland’s new-car dealers continue to set the standard, uniting to deliver one of the most prestigious auto shows in the world and standing firmly behind the local organizations that power our community,” said 2026 Chicago Auto Show Chairman Jason Roberts. “The Chicago Auto Show continues to stand out as a place where innovation, culture and consumer engagement come together. This year’s new exhibits, expanded ride-alongs and diverse displays demonstrated how the show continues to evolve alongside the industry.”

In partnership with Versiti Blood Center of Illinois, the Dennis Buckley Memorial Blood Drive, a meaningful tradition spanning more than two decades, returned during the 2026 Chicago Auto Show. The drive collected 1,441 units of blood, the second-highest total in show history, helping provide lifesaving support to as many as 4,323 patients and their families while addressing critical winter blood shortages.

Fan engagement extended well beyond the show floor. Early analytics indicate that the Chicago Auto Show generated strong reach across digital and social media platforms, with millions of impressions, extensive video content and positive audience sentiment highlighting excitement around new exhibits, interactive experiences and the return of key manufacturers.

The show also saw strong and growing support from sponsors for 2026, led by premier partners Cars.com and ComEd. Official sponsors included Sim Drive and Drive Chicago, with additional support from star sponsors U.S. Army and Mattress Firm, and supporting sponsors Renewal by Andersen and Britax. These partners played a key role in enhancing onsite activations, interactive exhibits and branded experiences that contributed to a more engaging and dynamic attendee experience throughout the show.

The Chicago Auto Show is already gearing up with plans to return to McCormick Place next February. Dates for the 2027 Chicago Auto Show are Feb. 12 (First Look for Charity) and Feb. 13-21 (public show).

For more information on the Chicago Auto Show, visit www.ChicagoAutoShow.com.

Over the past 15 years, CATA’s trustee representation on the Local 701 Pension, Welfare, and 401(k) Trust Funds has delivered measurable financial progress for those Funds, while continuing to ensure that these Funds are structured and funded appropriately given the unique needs of every stakeholder in the industry, including CATA dealer members.

Pension Fund: From Critical to Nearly Fully Funded

When Chris Konecki, CATA Executive Vice President and full-time CATA employee, first became a trustee on the Local 701 Pension Fund 15 years ago, the Fund was in the “red zone,” meaning it was less than 80% funded and certified by its actuary as being in “critical” status. Today? The Fund is 98% funded, certified by its actuary as being in the “green” zone (which is the healthiest designation the Fund can receive under the law), and projected to be fully funded within two years (and to stay fully funded for the foreseeable future).

Impact for Employers:

Once fully funded, withdrawal liability will be fully eliminated for employers who sell their businesses, which is a significant financial and strategic advantage for the entire industry.

Second Pension Plan Prevented:

In the most recent Local 701 contract negotiations, there was a serious risk of the Union seeking to add a second pension plan, the IAM National Pension Fund. The IAM National Pension Fund is not as well funded as the Local 701 Pension Fund, and the addition of this second fund to the Local 701 agreements could have substantially increased each dealer’s potential withdrawal liability.

Through trustee-led negotiations, this second pension was kept out of the agreement, protecting dealers from added long-term financial exposure, and strengthening the Local 701 Pension Fund so that it achieves full funding and can continue to provide meaningful pension benefits to employees.

In addition, Konecki also serves as a trustee for the Local 731 Teamsters Pension and Welfare Funds, where the pension fund currently has zero withdrawal liability and remains very well-funded.

Welfare Fund: Stabilized and Strengthened

The Local 701 Welfare Fund has also improved significantly since Konecki became a trustee. The Welfare Fund, like the Pension Fund, is now very well-funded and projected to stay well-funded for the foreseeable future. Furthermore, following recent negotiations among the trustees, the Welfare Fund’s premium rates will include an assumed future investment return, which should result in lower annual healthcare premium cost increases beginning with the 2029 contract cycle. 

The progress achieved over the past 15 years reflects steady, experienced leadership by Konecki and the CATA, focused on:

• Financial stability
• Risk reduction
• Long-term sustainability for every stakeholder, including CATA members and other employers

Strong benefit funds don’t happen by accident. They require experience, diligence and a commitment to protecting every stakeholder in the industry, including the dealers CATA represents. Furthermore, union negotiations don’t just affect unionized dealerships; they influence the broader market by helping set compensation standards and cost structures that impact both union and non-union dealerships.

Konecki balances this critical trustee role alongside his CATA leadership and Chicago Auto Show responsibilities with dedication and discipline. His passion for the dealer industry is evident in every role in which he serves, and his understanding of the industry (and of the Local 701 and Local 731 Benefit Funds) is second to none.

Fifteen years ago, the Local 701 Funds were in trouble. Today, they are strong, stable, and positioned for full funding well into the future. That transformation reflects disciplined leadership and deep institutional knowledge. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, Konecki’s experience and expertise developed over many years of serving in this role will remain essential to protecting the dealer industry, CATA members and their businesses.

Chicago Auto Show organizers, in partnership with A Girls Guide to Cars, held the ninth annual What Drives Her program during the show’s Media Preview on Friday, Feb. 6. Industry leaders from across the country came together for a robust discussion and award recognition ceremony to highlight women in four different categories: Industry Trailblazer, Best in Craft Media, Automotive Ally and Best Retailer. The program gives industry leaders a stage to share trends, stories and personal anecdotes of the integral role that women hold in the auto industry. 

Best Retailer 2026 Winner: Alyssa Farkas, assistant general manager, Arnie Bauer Buick GMC Cadillac

The Best Retailer award recognizes a female employed by a Chicago-area dealership that demonstrates a high level of commitment and drive to any task at hand, whether that's in sales, service or technical support.

Farkas received a standout nomination recognizing her significant impact at Arnie Bauer Buick GMC Cadillac since 2011. She advanced from BDC manager to sales manager before being promoted to assistant general manager in 2023. In 2025, Farkas led an initiative through the ComEd EV program that helped the dealership finish as the nation’s top GMC EV dealer.

Best Retailer finalists included: Kelly Kane, marketing and social media manager, Brilliance Subaru, and Jennifer Pascoe, service advisor, Jerry Haggerty Chevrolet.

The 2026 What Drives Her program returns to the Chicago Auto Show Media Preview held Feb. 5 at McCormick Place. This program, now in its ninth year, recognizes and applauds outstanding females and advocates in the auto industry.

At a local level, the Best Retailer award calls on CATA dealers to nominate an extraordinary female at your dealerships. 

Best Retailer Criteria: Employed by a Chicago-area dealership, this person demonstrates a high level of commitment and drive to any task at hand, whether that’s in sales, service, finance or technical support.

Last year’s award recipient was Kelly Donku, sales manager at Bill Jacobs BMW.

Nominations are now open for the 2026 awards. Please submit your nominations by January 9.

Submit a nomination here.

The Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), producer of the Chicago Auto Show, released the dates and plans for the 2026 event, held Feb. 7-16 at McCormick Place. Marking its 118^th edition, the show will offer attendees an engaging experience with the latest new vehicles, outdoor ride-and-drives and indoor test tracks.

“Every year, the Chicago Auto Show evolves, but 2026 will set a new standard for what an auto show experience can be,” said Chicago Auto Show Chairman Jason Roberts. “From cutting-edge vehicle technology to immersive test tracks and ride-alongs, we are giving attendees a multitude of interactive ways to explore the future of mobility, in a hands-on and fun manner.”

Attendees at this year’s show will have the chance to explore multiple indoor test tracks, providing more opportunities to ride along in some of the latest models. The Chicago Drives Electric “electrified” track returns, giving consumers the chance to experience the newest all-electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Ford’s “Built Wild” track will showcase the capability of the Bronco family of vehicles, and Camp Jeep returns with its signature off-road course, offering an immersive, adventure-filled ride that highlights Jeep’s legendary 4×4 capability. The 2026 Chicago Auto Show will also offer attendees the opportunity to get behind the wheel for outdoor test drives.

Demonstrating the power and influence of an auto show, a post-show survey to 2025 Chicago Auto Show attendees found that more than one-third (35%) reported purchasing or leasing a vehicle in the months following the show. Among those who made a purchase, 84% indicated that the Chicago Auto Show was influential on their purchase decision.

“This strong post-show activity underscores the Chicago Auto Show’s ongoing role as a catalyst for consumer engagement,” said Chicago Auto Show General Manager Jennifer Morand. “It’s a testament to the power of hands-on experiences. When consumers can compare vehicles side-by-side, ask questions and truly immerse themselves, it drives confidence and ultimately decisions.”

To further enhance the attendee experience, the 2026 show will debut a brand-new, high-energy addition to the show floor: Chi-Town Alley. This immersive exhibit celebrates the city’s vibrant car culture and invites attendees to experience and engage with Chicago’s diverse automotive communities. Designed to spotlight the pride and creativity of local enthusiasts, Chi-Town Alley will reimagine the show’s former marketplace as a dynamic area showcasing everything from performance cars and custom builds to street-inspired rides and exotics.

The 2026 show is bringing back special themed days and events including:

• Exclusive VIP Tours on Friday, Feb. 6. Experience the Chicago Auto Show like never before with an exclusive 60-minute VIP Tour led in person by some of the best and brightest experts in the automotive industry. Tickets are available at ChicagoAutoShow.com
• Miles Per Hour Run on Sunday, Feb. 8: Runners can experience the auto show via a 2.4-mile loop inside McCormick Place before the event doors open to the public.
• Automotive Career Day on Tuesday, Feb. 10: Students of all ages are encouraged to come learn more about various careers within the automotive industry through a series of presentations and activations; special ticket price offered for advanced sales at $10 per ticket.
• First Responders & Military Appreciation Day on Wednesday, Feb. 11: Present your badge or military ID for free entry. Guests that accompany first responders or military personnel on this day receive a voucher for $5 off adult admission. 
• Chicago Auto Show Food Drive held Wednesday-Friday, Feb. 11-13: Bring three cans of food for A Safe Haven’s Food Bank and get a $5 voucher off regular admission.
• Chicago Friday Night Flights on Friday, Feb. 13: A one-of-a-kind indoor craft beer sampling event, along with full access to the show. 

Returning specialty exhibits:

• Overlanding Chicago is a space dedicated to showcasing the overlanding and outdoor lifestyle. In its first year on the show floor in 2025, Overlanding Chicago drew a unique crowd of show goers looking to explore life outside the urban jungle with their vehicles. With a focus on the overlanding lifestyle, the space features manufacturer displays of specialty vehicles, upfitting vendors, off-road accessories and much more. Attendees can look for an expanded space focusing on demonstrations, education and specific product features.
• Family Zone returns to the show as a dedicated area designed specifically for families and aimed at entertaining children aged 2-16. This safe and fun environment allows kids to enjoy themselves while being immersed in the auto show experience. Families will find a great variety of activities within the exhibit and around the show floor, including a kids’ Power Wheels track and more.  

“The momentum behind the Chicago Auto Show has never been stronger,” said Morand. “With the introduction of Chi-Town Alley and the return of popular attractions like the Family Zone and Overlanding Chicago, we are transforming the show into an even more dynamic, consumer-focused experience.”

The show’s 2026 Media Preview will be held Feb. 5-6 and its black-tie charity gala, First Look for Charity, will be held the evening of Friday, Feb. 6 at McCormick Place. Since its inception, First Look for Charity has raised more than $65 million for local charities, positively impacting individuals in the Chicagoland community. Attendees can once again expect an evening of gourmet food, beverages, musical entertainment and even the chance to win a brand-new 2026 Chevrolet Equinox and a 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser Hybrid, all while supporting those in need. Tickets and more information for First Look for Charity can be found at FirstLookforCharity.org.

Tickets to the 2026 Chicago Auto Show are currently on sale at ChicagoAutoShow.com. The 2026 show runs Feb. 7-16 at McCormick Place and opens to the public daily at 10 a.m. Adult ticket prices are $20; seniors ages 62 and older are $15; children ages 4-12 are $15; kids 3 and younger are free. Show hours vary by day, so please check the site for details.

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit ChicagoAutoShow.com. Media information is available at www.ChicagoAutoShow.com/media-information.

The Chicago Auto Show has launched a fully redesigned version of its official website, ChicagoAutoShow.com, as part of its efforts to enhance the digital experience for attendees, exhibitors and media ahead of the upcoming 2026 show. The new site reflects the excitement and innovation of the Chicago Auto Show itself, which has long been a hub for automotive debuts and industry trends.

The revamped website features a modern look, improved navigation and mobile-first design, making it easier than ever for users to access essential information about show dates, ticketing, vehicle debuts and special events. Visitors are able to explore detailed floor plans, browse photo and video galleries, and stay up to date with the latest show announcements.

“The Chicago Auto Show has always been about staying ahead of the curve, and that includes how we connect with our audience online,” said Chicago Auto Show General Manager Jennifer Morand. “This new site was designed to be faster, smarter and more user-friendly for all of our stakeholders.”

The launch of the new ChicagoAutoShow.com came at a pivotal time, as excitement continues to build for the upcoming 2026 Chicago Auto Show. This year marks the 118th edition of the Chicago Auto Show, held Feb. 7–16 at McCormick Place. Media Preview Days are scheduled for Feb. 5–6, and the First Look for Charity black-tie gala takes place on Feb. 6. For more information, visit ChicagoAutoShow.com.

The Chicago Auto Show is shifting gears for 2026 with a brand-new, high-energy addition to the show floor: Chi-Town Alley. This immersive exhibit celebrates the city’s vibrant car culture and invites attendees to experience and engage with Chicago’s diverse automotive communities. Designed to spotlight the pride and creativity of local enthusiasts, Chi-Town Alley will reimagine the show’s former marketplace as a dynamic area showcasing everything from performance cars and custom builds to street-inspired rides and exotics.

“Chi-Town Alley is all about celebrating the heartbeat of Chicago’s car culture,” said Jim OBrill, Chicago Auto Show senior director of marketing & strategy. “From classic restorations to cutting-edge customizations, this space gives local car enthusiasts a place to share their passion and creativity with the entire city. It is truly a reflection of the community that keeps our automotive scene thriving year-round.”

Chi-Town Alley will transform a section of the show floor into an energetic hub of automotive expression, featuring community-built vehicles, interactive displays and cultural touchpoints inspired by Chicago’s streets and neighborhoods. Debuting at the 2026 Chicago Auto Show, Chi-Town Alley is a fresh platform for the city’s homegrown car community. Partners who have already confirmed participation in Chi-Town Alley include Chi-Town Exotic Car Group, Fully Drivn (JDM style/import vehicles), Orale Chicago Car Club (LowRiders), and Northern Mustang Corral among other custom shops and vendors. From sleek show cars to creative customizations, the space is designed to capture the individuality and energy that define Chicago’s car scene, bringing enthusiasts, creators and fans together to one exhilarating destination.

To kick off this exciting new feature, show organizers are launching the Chi-Town Alley Showcase, a contest encouraging car lovers from across the Chicagoland area to share their story. Entrants will have the opportunity for their vehicle to be featured at the 2026 Chicago Auto Show, taking place Feb. 7–16, 2026, at McCormick Place.

Car-lovers ready to be part of the action are encouraged to submit a 60-second video highlighting their vehicle and explaining why it deserves to be featured in the Chi-Town Alley exhibit. The top three finalists will have their vehicles displayed throughout the 2026 Chicago Auto Show, each receiving two complimentary show passes and the opportunity to stand proudly beside their ride.

“The Chi-Town Alley Showcase contest gives local enthusiasts a real opportunity to shine,” said OBrill. “We know Chicagoans take pride in their rides, and this contest lets the public decide who represents the best of our city’s car culture. It’s a fun, authentic way to bring that community spirit onto the show floor.”

The final winner will be chosen by attendee voting during the show, making it a true celebration of the community that defines Chicagoland’s car scene. Submissions for the contest close Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, with finalists announced in early December. To enter the Chi-Town Alley Showcase contest, visit https://m.shortstack.page/ffTPXd and complete the online entry form.

The 2026 Chicago Auto Show public event will take place Feb. 7-16 at McCormick Place. The Media Preview dates are Feb. 5-6, and the First Look for Charity black-tie gala will be held the evening of Feb. 6. For more information, visit ChicagoAutoShow.com.

The Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), producers of the Chicago Auto Show, proudly announces two new charitable organizations to join the list of beneficiaries for First Look for Charity: The Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago and Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana. Additionally, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago returns to the event as one of the 18 total benefitting organizations.

The First Look for Charity black-tie gala is held the evening before the Chicago Auto Show opens to the public, transforming the show floor at McCormick Place into a night of elegance and generosity. Each year, the event raises more than $2 million for Chicago-area nonprofits. Charities are selected by the CATA board of directors and typically participate in the program for a nine-year term.

The Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago, founded in 1946, is dedicated to helping over 140,000 people living with epilepsy in the Chicagoland area reach their fullest potential through direct services, educational programs, community-based events, and advocacy that supports public awareness and reduces the stigmas that so often accompany the disorder. Their wide-reaching work includes case management, clinical counseling, support groups, and public education campaigns. Epilepsy is a medical condition that produces seizures affecting a wide range of mental and physical functions. Over 3.4 million Americans live with epilepsy.

Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana (GSGCNWI), is one of the largest councils in the nation, serving 32,500 girls and 16,500 adults across urban, suburban, and rural communities. For more than 113 years, the organization has provided safe, supportive spaces where girls build confidence, friendships, and leadership skills while breaking barriers to participation. The mission of GSGCNWI is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. 

The CATA is pleased to welcome back Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago as a returning First Look for Charity beneficiary. A consistent force for good throughout the region, Catholic Charities provides more than 150 programs and services to individuals and families in need. Previously a benefiting charity from 2014 to 2023, their nine-year term concluded, and they have now been reinstated for another term.

“Adding these incredible organizations to our First Look for Charity event strengthens our commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of people across Chicagoland,” said CATA Board Member and First Look for Charity Chair Jerry Haggerty. “This gala is more than just a night of luxury; it’s about investing in our communities through organizations that truly move the needle.”

Since its inception, First Look for Charity has raised more than $65 million for local nonprofits. The CATA and its member dealers also give back year-round through the Chicagoland Dealers Care program, which matches donations from CATA dealers to local causes in their communities.

The full listing of 2026 First Look for Charity beneficiaries include: 100 Club of Illinois; Advocate Health Care; ALS United Greater Chicago; Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago; Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago; Cal’s Angels Pediatric Cancer Foundation; Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago; Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago; Franciscan Community Benefit Services; Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana; Habitat for Humanity; Jesse White Tumbling Team; Lydia Home & Safe Families for Children; Misericordia; Sertoma Star Services; Special Olympics Illinois; Susan G. Komen, Chicago; and Turning Pointe Autism Foundation.

The 2026 First Look for Charity will be held Friday, February 6 at McCormick Place. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit FirstLookforCharity.org.

The Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), producer of the Chicago Auto Show, successfully concluded its fourth annual Chicago Drives Electric event, held Oct. 2-5 in Oakbrook Terrace, Ill. The event marked its most expansive year yet, bringing together 16 automotive brands and 44 electrified vehicle models for consumers to explore through test drives and hands-on educational opportunities.

Launched in 2022, Chicago Drives Electric continues to grow in reach and relevance, offering consumers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to get behind the wheel of all-electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles, ranging from luxury models to rugged SUVs and practical family vehicles, all in one convenient location.

“Chicago Drives Electric is designed to break down barriers to EV ownership by giving consumers the tools, insights and first-hand experience they need to make an informed decision,” said CATA President Jennifer Morand. “The increased participation from automakers and strong consumer turnout this year reflect the growing momentum and enthusiasm around electric vehicles.”

Over the course of the event, Chicago Drives Electric attracted 855 total registered drivers and facilitated 4,546 in-vehicle experiences, demonstrating sustained consumer interest in electric vehicles.

Participants had the opportunity to test drive vehicles from BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, GMC, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Lotus, Polestar, Tesla, Toyota, VinFast and Volkswagen, with expert product specialists to answer questions and guide them through the evolving EV landscape.

The event was powered by ComEd, which once again served as presenting sponsor. Experts from ComEd were onsite to provide vital information on EV charging, home installation, rebates and incentives. Premier sponsor Cars.com also returned, offering tools and guidance for attendees navigating EV options and vehicle trade-ins.

“Collaboration with industry leaders and partners has transformed Chicago Drives Electric into more than just a test drive event; it’s a true resource hub,” said CATA Chairman Ryan Kelly. “It’s a place where people can ask real questions and leave with practical, actionable knowledge.”

According to a post-event survey, 79 percent of attendees reported they are more likely to purchase an electric vehicle after attending the event. For 20 percent of attendees, this was their first time driving or riding in an EV, highlighting the importance of hands-on experience in shaping consumer perceptions. Additionally, 92 percent of attendees said the event improved their opinion of electric vehicle ownership, highlighting the role events like Chicago Drives Electric play in shaping consumer attitudes toward EVs.

For consumers who missed the October event, Chicago Drives Electric will return in February 2026 as part of the Chicago Auto Show. The show will feature an indoor EV test track at McCormick Place, giving attendees another chance to drive the latest electrified vehicles and explore EV ownership in an interactive setting.

“The indoor EV test track has become a fan favorite at the Chicago Auto Show,” said Morand. “We’re excited to bring this experience back in 2026, continuing to educate and empower consumers as more brands launch innovative electric vehicles.”

The 2026 Chicago Auto Show will be held Feb. 7-16 at McCormick Place, with Media Preview Days on Feb. 5-6 and the First Look for Charity black-tie gala on Feb. 6. For more information on the 2026 Chicago Auto Show, visit ChicagoAutoShow.com. 

The Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), producer of the Chicago Auto Show and Chicago Drives Electric, announced the dates and new location for the fourth annual Chicago Drives Electric event. The EV test drive and education experience will take place October 2–5, 2025, at an expanded location: the ComEd Building at 3 Lincoln Center in Oakbrook Terrace, Ill., conveniently located near the former event site at CATA headquarters. 

After three successful consecutive years, Chicago Drives Electric, powered by ComEd, continues to expand in size, scope and impact. This year’s move to a larger location reflects the growing public interest in electrification and provides space for an even broader lineup of vehicles, education and hands-on experiences, all aimed at helping consumers better understand the EV landscape.  

“The demand for EV education continues to be on a steady incline, and this event is designed to meet that need head-on — in a way that's both accessible and exciting,” said CATA President Jennifer Morand. “Whether you're just curious about electric vehicles or ready to make the switch, Chicago Drives Electric offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to ask questions, gain hands-on experience and truly understand what EV ownership looks like.”

The four-day event features the opportunity for consumers to test drive the latest all-electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Knowledgeable product specialists will be accessible to help attendees understand how EVs may fit individual needs and lifestyles and offer in-depth information about electric vehicle technology, the current charging infrastructure landscape and the environmental benefits of going electric.

“Today’s consumers want trustworthy EV guidance and the chance to experience the technology for themselves,” said Morand. “Chicago Drives Electric delivers both, helping people feel more confident as they consider making the switch to an EV.”

Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to experience a variety of EVs—ranging from luxury to mainstream—from manufacturers including BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, GMC, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Lotus, Polestar, Tesla, Toyota, VinFast and Volkswagen. The full listing of vehicles available for test drives can be found at ChicagoDrivesElectric.com.

ComEd is supporting this year’s event as the Presenting Sponsor and will be onsite to answer consumer questions about home charging, rebates and incentives, and more. Cars.com and Drive Chicago both return as Premier Sponsors of the event. Media Day Sponsors include Stellantis, which will kick off Media Day with breakfast and vehicle walkaround, and CDK Global, returning to share insights from its latest EV report.

Attendees must pre-register for a timeslot; tickets and registration are now available at ChicagoDrivesElectric.com. Test drive slots are limited to first come, first served. Participants who plan to drive must have a valid driver's license. The hours are as follows: Oct. 2 (2-6 p.m.), Oct. 3-4 (8 a.m. – 6 p.m.) and Oct. 5 (8 a.m. – 4 p.m.).

In the next calendar year, the 2026 Chicago Auto Show public event will take place Feb. 7-16 at McCormick Place. The Media Preview dates are Feb. 5-6, and the First Look for Charity black-tie gala will be held the evening of Feb. 6. Chicago Drives Electric will also return in the form of an EV test track inside of the Chicago Auto Show, serving as the show’s central “EV hub” where attendees can learn more about the electrified lifestyle and the latest EV vehicles on the market. The full brand lineup will be announced closer to the February show dates. Tickets to the 2026 Chicago Auto Show and First Look for Charity gala will go on sale this fall at ChicagoAutoShow.com.

Chicago Drives Electric interview and b-roll opportunities are available on Thursday, Oct. 2, from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Additional media opportunities can be arranged with CATA Director of Communications and Marketing Hayley Feichter (hfeichter@drivechicago.com). More information can be found at ChicagoDrivesElectric.com.