The International Motor Show has been cancelled for the 2010 showing due to the economic downturn and the unreliability of automobile companies in recent months. But the funny thing: this is the British International Motor Show. It was slated to be held at the ExCel Exhibition Area in the Docklands area, but was cancelled by the Society of Manufacturers and Traders because many companies couldn’t afford to a) get their products over there, and b) focus marketing strategies on people who may want to buy their vehicles.

However, the SMMT has stated that they will stay “committed to to showcasing the achievements and products of the automotive sector.”

Many auto transport companies have been hit somewhat hard by the news as well: the major US manufacturers often outsource their shipping needs to companies inside the United States, and those companies aren’t complaining about the business. But now, with the show cancelled and many other shows likely to be cancelled in the future, the auto transport industry could see a downturn if things don’t improve. However, the good news is that people still are buying new cars, and the only way to get them to the dealerships is to ship them.

So keep your fingers crossed, because as we get deeper into 2009 we’re starting to see what the auto industry can really do. Hold your hats.