Oberoi Concours d’Elegance Celebrates 90 Years In Style

EE News Desk Feb 12, 2024

As per a media report, the allure of automotive excellence can be experienced at the prestigious Oberoi Concours d'Elegance, captivating enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike at The Oberoi Udaivilãs, Udaipur from 16 to 18 February, 2024. This event not only showcases a breathtaking collection of classic cars and motorcycles but also commemorates a significant milestone—the splendid 90th anniversary of Oberoi Hotels & Resorts.

Throughout its history, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts has championed the promotion and preservation of Indian heritage by hosting renowned classic and vintage car rallies at its award-winning properties. In keeping with this legacy, The Oberoi Concours d'Elegance is set to establish a new standard in presenting the finest vintage and classic automobiles and motorcycles, both from India and beyond. The event will unfold against the backdrop of Lake Pichola, amidst the traditional domed architecture of The Oberoi Udaivilãs, providing a setting to celebrate the remarkable design and craftsmanship of the world's most sought-after and distinctive vehicles.

Curated from the private collections of Indian royalty and collectors, The Oberoi Concours d'Elegance promises an opportunity to witness some of the rarest and historically significant automobiles meticulously restored and preserved over generations.

India's automotive historian, Manvendra Singh Barwani, is the curator of the upcoming event, The Oberoi Concours d'Elegance. A panel of classic car experts from around the world will assess vehicles in various categories, with Sandra Button, Chairperson of Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, serving as the Chief Judge. Notable judges, including multiple world champions Giacomo Agostini and Jacky Ickx, will oversee the competition, ensuring that only the most exceptional vehicles receive recognition. Renowned automotive authority Simon Kidston will manage the event.

Additionally, The Oberoi Concours d'Elegance will unveil an exclusive poster crafted by the automobile artist, Tim Layzell. Layzell's commitment to precision and detail is evident in every stroke, capturing the energy and charm of the automobiles featured at The Oberoi Concours d'Elegance.

The upcoming Oberoi Concours d'Elegance promises to showcase a diverse array of classes, each highlighting a chapter in India's motoring history and the era of Maharajahs. From the intriguing "Motoring for the Masses – India" to the captivating "Cars of the Maharajahs – Mysore," each class unfolds a unique narrative of automotive heritage.

At the heart of the event are exceptional vehicles, including the 1925 Hispano Suiza H6B Transformable Limousine crafted exclusively for the Maharaja of Mysore. This car features bespoke coachwork by the renowned French firm Carrosserie J. Saoutchik, with a Transformable Limousine design that allows the roof to open in sections, transforming it into a cabriolet-limousine and a full open tourer.

Among the entries is the 1939 Daimler 2 ½ litre ‘Dolphin’ Tourer, originally owned by the Aga Khan and later acquired by the Jodhpur royal family. The 'After Thought,' a 1930 Ford Model A Coupe and recipient of the SEMA 2017 Mother Shrine award, promises to captivate with its distinctive charm. Additionally, a powerful 1916 Emblem 680cc V Twin motorcycle is set to awe enthusiasts, completing the line-up of extraordinary vehicles at The Oberoi Concours d'Elegance.

Infusing a regal touch, the event will display automobiles from royal garages, encompassing Udaipur, Jodhpur, Gondal, Tehri-Garhwal, and Baroda. In a heartfelt tribute to the late Shri P.R.S. Oberoi, the showcase will additionally feature a curated selection of Oberoi family cars, honouring and celebrating his enduring legacy.

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.”