The effects of the international economic crisis are taking a new turn in the automobile industry. A few weeks ago, Japanese manufacturer Suzuki announced that it wouldn't be participating in the next Detroit International Auto Show. The reason is simple: the company has nothing particular or new to unveil at this time.
It seems that other big names will be following suit this year for various reasons. This week, three of the largest premium brands announced that they will simply not be attending the Detroit Show. Ferrari won't be presenting its new high-performance cars to the people of Detroit.
Same story with BMW's Rolls Royce division, which justifies its absence by the lack of a market in the Great Lakes area. Land Rover, now owner of the Tata Indian group, cites high costs as the reason for its absence. All have stated that the cost of transportation is one of the main factors behind the decision, as shipping sets them back a minimum of $10,000 per car.
Last year, Porsche, Aston Martin and Lotus stayed away from the Detroit Show. A new philosophy has emerged has been slowly emerging, and the big auto shows seem to be losing ground against those targeting specific markets rather than the prestigious lifestyle.
photo:NAIAS
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| 2008 Detroit International Auto Show |
It seems that other big names will be following suit this year for various reasons. This week, three of the largest premium brands announced that they will simply not be attending the Detroit Show. Ferrari won't be presenting its new high-performance cars to the people of Detroit.
Same story with BMW's Rolls Royce division, which justifies its absence by the lack of a market in the Great Lakes area. Land Rover, now owner of the Tata Indian group, cites high costs as the reason for its absence. All have stated that the cost of transportation is one of the main factors behind the decision, as shipping sets them back a minimum of $10,000 per car.
Last year, Porsche, Aston Martin and Lotus stayed away from the Detroit Show. A new philosophy has emerged has been slowly emerging, and the big auto shows seem to be losing ground against those targeting specific markets rather than the prestigious lifestyle.
photo:NAIAS