Since the day I wanted to start IBF, everyone I'd spoken to in the industry mentioned METS as being the best trade show to go to. It was a show I knew I had to go to. With the emergence of numerous electric engines over the last couple of years as well as a few other reasons I decided now was the right time for a trip to Amsterdam. With tickets, travel & accommodation booked I couldn't wait to see what all the hype was about. I was in my 20's the last time I visited Amsterdam and still had memories of the trams, bicycles and cars that seem to come from all directions with eyes in the back of my head definitely required. Things haven't changed since then but I was there for the Trade show this time so with a clear head it was easy to navigate the city between the airport, Amsterdam RAI, my hotel and the city centre.
The show lived up to it's expectations and more. With over 1200 exhibitors spread over 13 halls including street food bars, coffee lounges and presentation stages I was simply blown away by the sheer scale of the show. With an abundance of electric engines to research as well as life jacket manufacturers to chat to I was glad I went for the three day duration. I came away with a bag full of flyers, business cards and catalogues to digest over the coming weeks.
Most of the electric engines were I'd say two or three years away from being something that could potentially replace the conventional petrol engine. The batteries required for now are just way too big and not in the right price range to make them accessible to the SIB masses. I did get to test drive one of my favorites from the show, the Propel S1 Definitely an excuse to keep going back over the coming years Here are a few of the pics taken in Amsterdam.