The prestigious Oberoi Concours d’Elegance is set to captivate automotive enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike as it brings together a breath-taking collection of classic cars and motorcycles at The Oberoi Udaivilãs, Udaipur from 16th to 18th February 2024. This distinguished event also marks a significant milestone – the glorious 90th anniversary of Oberoi Hotels & Resorts.
Throughout its history, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts has been committed to promoting and preserving Indian heritage and hosting prestigious classic and vintage car rallies around its award-winning properties. In keeping with this tradition, The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance will set a new benchmark to showcase the finest vintage and classic automobiles and motorcycles from India and abroad. The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance will be hosted at The Oberoi Udaivilãs, Udaipur, in February 2024. Set against the majestic backdrop of Lake Pichola and the traditional domed architecture of the resort, The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance will celebrate the remarkable design and craftsmanship of the world’s most sought-after and distinctive vehicles. Owned by Indian royalty and private collectors, the Concours will be a unique opportunity to view some of the rarest and most historically significant automobiles restored and preserved over many generations.
The event is curated by India’s leading automotive historian, Mr. Manvendra Singh Barwani. In addition, a distinguished panel of classic car cognoscenti from across the globe will judge cars and motorcycles in different classifications. Ms. Sandra Button, Chairperson of the prestigious and globally renowned Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, will serve as Chief Judge. Distinguished judges, including multiple world champions Giacomo Agostini and Jacky Ickx, will oversee the competition, ensuring that only the finest vehicles receive recognition. The event will be expertly convened by noted automotive authority Simon Kidston.
The Oberoi Concours d’ Elegance will also unveil an exclusive poster created by the renowned automobile artist, Tim Layzell. Layzell’s dedication to precision and detail is evident in every stroke, encapsulating the dynamic energy and timeless allure of the automobiles showcased at The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance.
The Oberoi Concours d’Elegnace will showcase a diverse range of classes, celebrating India’s motoring history and the opulent era of Maharajahs. From “Motoring for the Masses – India” to “Cars of the Maharajahs – Mysore,” each class tells a unique story of automotive heritage.
Highlighting the event are extraordinary vehicles, including a 1925 Hispano Suiza H6B Transformable Limousine Made for the Maharaja of Mysore, this car comes with bespoke coachwork by renowned French firm Carrosserie J. Saoutchik. It is a Transformable Limousine, with the roof opening in sections to make it a cabriolet-limousine and a full open tourer.
Other notable entries include the 1939 Daimler 2 ½ litre ‘Dolphin’ Tourer, originally owned by the Aga Khan and later by the Jodhpur royal family. The ‘After Thought’ – 1930 Ford Model A Coupe, an SEMA 2017 Mother Shrine award winner, and a powerful 1916 Emblem 680cc V Twin motorcycle are sure to leave enthusiasts in awe.
Adding regal flair, the event will feature cars from various royal garages, including Udaipur, Jodhpur, Gondal, Tehri-Garhwal and Baroda. Paying homage to the late Mr P.R.S. Oberoi, the showcase will also present a selection of Oberoi family cars, serving as a fitting tribute to his legacy.
Mr. Arjun Oberoi, Executive Chairman, The Oberoi Group, said, “Oberoi Hotels & Resorts are delighted to host and promote the celebration of beauty, innovation, and craftsmanship that has defined a century of the most exceptional automobiles of the world. Our automotive legacy is amongst the most significant and historically important. With The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance, we look forward to placing India on the world’s Concours stage and showcasing the very best of automotive heritage and excellence”.
Mr. Manvendra Singh Barwani, Curator, The Oberoi Concours d’ Elegance added, “I am honoured to curate The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance, an exclusive showcase of automotive history and design. The show will take the heritage of automobile culture and the history of India to an international level, showcasing the finest vintage and classic automobiles and motorcycles. Moreover, with Indian restoration work on par with international standards, we can compete with international entries on our home stage.”
Ms. Sandra Button, Chief Judge at The Oberoi Concours d’ Elegance further added, “India’s automotive history has captivated me for over 15 years. The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance is more than a celebration; it’s a gathering of the world’s automotive elite, uniting leaders, collectors, racers and journalists. As Chief Judge, I’m honoured to recognise the exceptional individuals behind these remarkable cars. In an era of automotive transformation, preserving and celebrating legacies becomes paramount. The Oberoi Concours d’ Elegance is a showcase of India’s automotive heritage, featuring diverse historic cars against the stunning backdrop of The Oberoi Udaivilãs and Lake Pichola. It transcends being a global competition; it is a powerful representation of India’s automotive legacy.”
BMW will showcase the iconic BMW 328, the most successful sports car of the 1930s on the racing scene. This classic car symbolizes the brand’s rich automotive heritage and will enhance the diverse collection of vehicles at The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance.
Adding effervescence to the celebration, Moët Hennessy India has joined hands as the official celebration partner. Moët Hennessy India will be crafting extravagant experiences with their exceptional champagnes, wines and spirits from around the world, that come together as a collection of rare brands where heritage and innovation, authenticity and creativity converge.
The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance is honoured to have Stefano Ricci as an esteemed partner for the upcoming event. Renowned for their steadfast support and participation in Concours, Stefano Ricci will feature a captivating pop-up to showcase their exclusive Sartorial line.
The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance promises a journey through time, blending automotive elegance, history, and artistry.
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