ABOUT THE DETROIT AUTO SHOW
The North American International Auto Show -- aka NAIAS or the Detroit show -- is generally regarded as the most important auto show in the United States. Taking place right in the Big Three's back yard, the show is traditionally the launching ground for lots of new products and concept vehicles, both domestic and imported. This year's show is marked by controversy, as several automakers, including Nissan and Porsche, have pulled out; however, several important and interesting cars are in attendance.
WHEN TO GO
The 2009 Detroit Auto Show is open to the public Saturday, January 17th through Sunday, January 25th, with a special charity preview on Friday evening, January 16th.
Hours:
January 17th through January 24th: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm (last admission at 9:00 pm)
January 27th: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (last admission at 6:00 pm)
Admission:
Adults: $12
Senior citizens and children 7-12: $6
Children 6 and under: Free with a paid adult
Purchase tickets online
Charity preview
A black-tie charity preview is being held on Friday, January 16th, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, with proceeds to benefit various children's charities. Admission is $400, $390 of which is tax deductible.
Purchase charity preview tickets online
HOW TO GET THERE
The Detroit show takes place at the Cobo Conference and Exhibition Center, One Washington Boulevard in Detroit.Cobo is served by the Detroit People Mover, and several park-and-ride facilities are available. Shuttle service is available from the Detroit Zoo and the Henry Ford Museum/ Greenfield Village ($5, children 6 and under free).
Parking and shuttle information
WHAT TO SEE
Despite the doom-and-gloom predictions, Detroit is spectacular this year. Among the things I'd recommend checking out:
- 2010 Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKT: Two production vehicles that could help change Ford's fortunes.
- Cadillac Converj concept: There are a lot of stunning concept cars at the show, but this is my favorite -- and its environmentally-friendly underpinnings are no less impressive.
- 2010 Toyota Prius: The all-new third-generation version of the world's favorite hybrid car.
- BYD and Brilliance: These two Chinese automakers want to start selling cars in the US in the next few years. Check them out, because goodness knows if you'll ever actually get to see their cars again.
- Lamborghini: You'll find two Gallardos painted in a shade of matte blue that is to die for.
- Subaru: The new Legacy Concept is the big news, but Subaru is also displaying the first Legacy built in the US -- and how often do you get to see a twenty-year-old American-built Japanese car in pristine shape?
- Michigan Hall: Venture downstairs (follow the smell of fresh fertilizer) and you can get a ride in one of several eco-vehicles in a serene remotely-garden-like setting. Lines will probably be long, but don't go back upstairs without seeing Michelin's exhibit, where you'll find old and new versions of the Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger and Cadillac concept cars -- very cool!
