Futuristic designs and technology that was just a dream a few years ago are on display at the 82nd Geneva International Motor Show which opens its doors on 8 March and runs until 18 March 2012.

This year, the 1,200,000 sq ft (110,000 sq m) of the Palexpo is welcoming 260 exhibitors and organisers predict more than 700,000 visitors. Of course, the Geneva International Motor Show also arrives with some surprises: you will find 180 new car-related innovations, as well as new exhibitors from Germany and Turkey. With a wide range of offerings the show also includes designated areas for electric and alternative powered cars as well as workshop installations for any repair or maintenance enquiries.

The Geneva Motor Show was the first event of its type to create a space dedicated exclusively to the use of renewable and ecological energies as propulsion sources, and the event's Green Pavilion has quickly become an important part of the show. This year, visitors can not only see but also test drive some of the thirty cars on display that use new technologies to reduce fuel consumption.

If you're thinking about going along to the show, there are numerous options and discounts available. In particular, if you're travelling a fair distance to get there, or even if you just want to relax after the show is over, many hotels are offering packages that include accommodation, transportation and entry tickets to the motor show as part of one deal. However if you can’t make it along you can also follow all the exhibition’s key moments on your mobile device with the show’s very own dedicated app, currently available for download.

Something else you may want to take advantage of is buying tickets online. If you pick tickets up in this manner, you won't have to wait in long queues once you get there - saving you plenty of time! If you want to save money, or even if you think you'll just struggle to get along during the day, tickets are discounted by 50% for entry after 4 pm.

All in all, the Geneva International Motor Show is an event that's of interest to motor enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you work in the industry, are a fanatic in your own time, or even just have a passing interest in new car technologies, a trip along could be more than worth the effort.

Sean Burke writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.