Two major car and entertainment magazine publishers have formed an alliance to host annual auto events nationwide.
The move is aimed at cashing in on rapid growth in the automobile market and spur local economies upcountry.
After its success in July with the first Bangkok International Auto Salon, an aftermarket exhibition, Inspire Entertainment will now join hands with the Amanita Square Group to organise a Thailand Motor Festival upcountry starting next year.
Inspire is a subsidiary of Siam Sport Syndicate Plc, while Amanita publishes 15 car and motorcycle magazines.
The event, which will be similar to Bangkok's major motor events, will be held in six major provinces nationwide at different times throughout the year.
The first year's events will cost 220 million baht including 100 million for media spending.
The first expo is planned for the Northeast, in either Khon Kaen or Nakhon Ratchasima province.
All shows will be held at facilities of the Central Group in those provinces that have a Central shopping mall.
At least 20,000 square metres will be needed, and each expo will last 7-10 days.
The organisers said a total 18,000 to 20,000 automobiles are expected to be sold during each year's events.
Other locations being considered include Chiang Mai in the North and Hat Yai in the South.