Tens of thousands of motorsport fans will descend on Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir today as the fourth Bahrain International Motor Show (BIMS) gets underway.

The four-day event will feature family-friendly performances from international drift teams, the car-crushing spectacular of a monster truck, an appearance and concert by American rapper and television star Xzibit, as well as all the biggest names in Bahrain's automotive industry unveiling the latest cars, bikes and concept vehicles.

An official opening ceremony will be held at the BIC, followed by a drive event featuring more than 25 top car brands including McLaren, Lamborghini and Lotus roaring their way from the Al A'ali Shopping Complex in Seef to the circuit, said a report in the Gulf Daily News (GDN), our sister publication.

Biker stunts, drift demonstrations, a live musical performance and the much-anticipated monster crush shows will round off the first day of activities.

Building on the success of 2011's BIMS, which attracted nearly 30,000 visitors, this year's show is expected to attract 50,000 and will be the biggest and best yet, organiser Wassim Sami Farhoud told the GDN.

"We are adding pyrotechnics and light shows, it is going to be very professional," he said.

"We are bringing in a drifting team from Malta, Team Maximum Lock, who have specially modified cars to slide around the track.

"Stunt professional, biker Lee Bowers from the UK, will return and we are bringing in the Slingshot monster truck as well."

Other new attractions include an expanded motorcycle section, called the first Bahrain International Motor Bike Show, and a commercial vehicle section complete with trucks and buses.

Gates open at noon tomorrow and on Saturday, with the BIC open for test drives tomorrow from 12.30pm.

Action shows featuring bike stunts, drifting and the monster truck will be held throughout both days, as well as this afternoon.

The show closes at 9pm each day, but tomorrow will feature a live performance by American rapper and host of MTV show Pimp My Ride, Xzibit, at 9pm.

Tickets cost BD5 ($13) for adults and BD2 for children. - TradeArabia News Service