One would expect the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) held in Detroit to provide plenty of thought-provoking new technologies and head-turning designs from international and American manufacturers alike. After all, since 1989 when it was first granted its official international status, it has grown to become the premiere auto show on the continent. However the 2009 edition, which is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the international label, may hold unusual surprises.
Even though several major manufacturers and brands have confirmed their absence, show organisers still expect to have over 700,000 visitors, the "usual" 6,000 press members from some 60 countries, and approximately 40,000 industry insiders from over 2,000 companies.
The marques that will have no exhibit this year include Nissan and Infiniti, Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Rolls-Royce, Land Rover and Ferrari. Porsche will not be attending either for a second year in a row.
On January 7, 24 manufacturers press conferences had been confirmed for the 2-day press preview held before the show opens to the public, on January 17. That is down from 41 held during last year's press preview.
To fill he gaps left by absent companies, and by others that are attending but have reduced the size of their exhibit due to weak economic conditions, additional companies have been invited to attend. Newcomers include Morgan, Lotus, Carbon Motors, Revenge Designs and Tesla.
Moreover the two Chinese manufacturers attending this year, BYD and Brilliance, will be able to have their exhibits on Cobo Hall's main floor, filling in for others. In previous years, Chinese manufacturers stands were located in hallways or in the lower level hall.
photo:David Freers / NAIAS
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Even though several major manufacturers and brands have confirmed their absence, show organisers still expect to have over 700,000 visitors, the "usual" 6,000 press members from some 60 countries, and approximately 40,000 industry insiders from over 2,000 companies.
The marques that will have no exhibit this year include Nissan and Infiniti, Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Rolls-Royce, Land Rover and Ferrari. Porsche will not be attending either for a second year in a row.
On January 7, 24 manufacturers press conferences had been confirmed for the 2-day press preview held before the show opens to the public, on January 17. That is down from 41 held during last year's press preview.
To fill he gaps left by absent companies, and by others that are attending but have reduced the size of their exhibit due to weak economic conditions, additional companies have been invited to attend. Newcomers include Morgan, Lotus, Carbon Motors, Revenge Designs and Tesla.
Moreover the two Chinese manufacturers attending this year, BYD and Brilliance, will be able to have their exhibits on Cobo Hall's main floor, filling in for others. In previous years, Chinese manufacturers stands were located in hallways or in the lower level hall.
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photo:David Freers / NAIAS
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