Dear Ultimatecarpage.com visitor,

This weekend the 2008 Essen Motorshow opened its doors to the public. Traditionally the annual show focuses on motorsport and tuning and this year was no exception. What was exceptional was the small number of major manufacturers that set up shop on the show floor. The effects of the global economic crisis were clearly felt. Nevertheless there were sufficient exhibitors to fill most of the many halls of the 'Messe Essen.' Most anticipated was Audi's annual motorsport press conference. The German company not only launched the brand new R8 LMS but also announced the development of the brand new 'R15' Le Mans racer, which will debut in March during the Sebring 12 Hours. Most of the other debuts came from specialized tuners like Techart, 9ff and Irmscher. Perhaps the most interesting of these turner cars was the Brabus tweaked Tesla Roadster. One of the modifications is a sound system that is linked to the throttle-pedal and imitates a revving internal combustion engine. A low point was the inclusion of new BMW tuner 'Brabham Racing' that abuses the name of one of racing's biggest legends. In addition to complete cars, the Essen Motorshow also includes booth after booth with after-market parts. Not all of these deserve the moniker 'tasteful.'
As usual our photographers ventured east to the heart of Germany's industrial to capture the show in in its entirety. This has resulted in the a brief report and a 100-shot slideshow packed with all the highs and lows of the 2008 Essen Motorshow.

Enjoy the links:

2008 Essen Motorshow report and slideshow

2009 Audi R8 LMS - Images, Specifications and Information

Regards,
Wouter Melissen