History of the Motorama

The General Motors Motor Show (also known as the "Motorama") was a national automobile show hosted by GM from 1931 to 1961 which began in New York City's Waldorf Astoria Hotel. Showcased in our Grand Ballroom, these automobile extravaganzas were designed to boost automobile sales with displays of fancy prototypes, concept vehicles and other special events including performances and movies. The term "Motorama" grew out of Alfred P. Sloan's yearly industrial luncheons at New York City's Waldorf Astoria, beginning in 1931. These events were held in conjunction with the New York Auto Show, that for many years was held traditionally in the first week of January.