How can I describe my experience in Detroit? Well, it was multi-faceted and filled with a range of emotions. On the one hand, as you walk the streets, it is hard not to feel a little down-trodden. On the other hand, it's clear this place and these people are survivors. Yes, the streets are empty. Yes, many buildings are boarded up. Yes, it is a tough time. BUT-- there is also evidence of a re-birth, of a clean slate and of new beginnings. If you make eye contact with a Detroit-onian--they will smile at you. That says a lot. After visiting the city, I am unequivocally a fan of Detroit. I am always a fan of the underdog-- and you could say that Detroit is the biggest underdog ever-- which gives them the potential to be the biggest comeback kids.
We are in the midst of an economic downturn that has affected almost every industry-- but the automotive industry arguably more than any other-- so how can “Motor city” be anything other than knocked down? But you know what they say, one door closes and another door opens. The streets of Detroit are almost creepily silent but the Renaissance Center Towers, gleaming in the January sunlight, seems to scream-- 'Don't write me off yet!' It's a stark juxtaposition—decrepit, crumbling old buildings (some clearly destined for imminent demolition) right along streets that proudly proclaim automotive roots: 'Shelby Avenue!'
I felt something the whole time I was on the Detroit Auto Show floor. My friend and personal guide Matt St-Pierre felt it too. It might be too early to say Detroit, and ergo the domestic auto industry is on a comeback-- but the energy is starting. It's a cautious energy and one that seems to be filled with trepidation and wisdom from the events of the last year-- but it's energy nonetheless. Looking at Ford, it's hard not to see a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel. Out of the ashes, the phoenix soars....
We are in the midst of an economic downturn that has affected almost every industry-- but the automotive industry arguably more than any other-- so how can “Motor city” be anything other than knocked down? But you know what they say, one door closes and another door opens. The streets of Detroit are almost creepily silent but the Renaissance Center Towers, gleaming in the January sunlight, seems to scream-- 'Don't write me off yet!' It's a stark juxtaposition—decrepit, crumbling old buildings (some clearly destined for imminent demolition) right along streets that proudly proclaim automotive roots: 'Shelby Avenue!'
I felt something the whole time I was on the Detroit Auto Show floor. My friend and personal guide Matt St-Pierre felt it too. It might be too early to say Detroit, and ergo the domestic auto industry is on a comeback-- but the energy is starting. It's a cautious energy and one that seems to be filled with trepidation and wisdom from the events of the last year-- but it's energy nonetheless. Looking at Ford, it's hard not to see a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel. Out of the ashes, the phoenix soars....