The Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), producer of the Chicago Auto Show, successfully concluded the 2026 Chicago Auto Show: Behind the Wheel event, held Oct. 2-4 at the ComEd Building in Oakbrook Terrace, Ill. The expanded test drive experience welcomed consumers for three days of hands-on opportunities to get behind the wheel of more than 30 of the latest cars, trucks and SUVs.

Formerly known as Chicago Drives Electric, Behind the Wheel expanded the event’s vehicle lineup beyond electrified vehicles to give consumers the opportunity to experience a broad range of automotive options, including all-electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and traditional gas-powered vehicles. The event featured models from eight participating manufacturers, representing both luxury and mainstream brands.

Over the course of the event, Behind the Wheel attracted nearly 1,000 attendees and facilitated more than 3,000 in-vehicle experiences, demonstrating strong consumer interest in experiencing the latest vehicles firsthand.

“Behind the Wheel gives consumers the opportunity to do more than simply look at the latest vehicles, it puts them in the driver’s seat,” said CATA President Jennifer Morand. “Expanding the event allowed us to offer consumers an even broader range of vehicles and technologies to experience, all in one convenient location. The response from attendees reinforces the value of hands-on experiences when considering a new vehicle.”

Participants had the opportunity to experience more than 30 vehicles from BMW, Chevrolet, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Tesla, Toyota and VinFast. The lineup included a mix of cars, trucks and SUVs, as well as all-electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and gas-powered models.

The event also provided consumers with the opportunity to connect directly with manufacturer product specialists, who were onsite throughout the event to answer questions and highlight vehicle features and technologies.

“Consumers want the opportunity to compare vehicles and understand how different technologies fit into their everyday lives,” said CATA Chairman Steve Phillipos. “Behind the Wheel brings that experience together in a way that is approachable and easy to navigate. Attendees could get behind the wheel, ask questions and experience multiple vehicles in a single visit.”

The 2026 event was powered by ComEd, which served as presenting sponsor. ComEd representatives were onsite to provide information and answer questions related to electric vehicle charging, home charging installation, rebates and incentives.

The experience continues at the 2027 Chicago Auto Show, which puts excitement in motion with immersive indoor test tracks and outdoor test drive experiences that let attendees experience today’s latest vehicles firsthand. Whether riding as a passenger indoors or taking the wheel outside, visitors can explore everything from off-road capability to electric and gas-powered performance. The 2027 Chicago Auto Show will be held Feb. 13-21 at McCormick Place in Chicago. For more information, visit ChicagoAutoShow.com.