This week’s big story can best be described in three words: Detroit. Auto. Show.
After a three-year hiatus, the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, otherwise known as the Detroit Auto Show, makes its return. Not so much triumphantly, as doggedly.
Given the trends of auto shows getting smaller and smaller, and its absence from the circuit due to a change in dates — moving from winter to early fall — and the pandemic, some wondered if the show would return at all.
The Detroit Auto Dealers Association did attempt to keep the event on the minds of Detroit-area residents as well as some members of the media with a transitional event last year, called Motor Bella. The smaller event, which was held at the M1 Concourse racetrack in Pontiac, Michigan, hosted just two press conferences and really focused on consumers, with plenty of in-vehicle experiences outdoors.
Back home
This year’s event is being held in downtown Detroit at the show’s the traditionl location, Huntington Place — the former Cobo Hall, but there’s also an outdoor component at nearby Hart Plaza that puts a new wrinkle on the event.
The initial schedule was underwhelming with just three automakers scheduled to appear during media days, although Ford announced early on the next-generation Mustang would make its debut.
Chevrolet and Jeep were also on the initial roster. However, since then Chrysler has jumped in, followed by Lincoln.
Several smaller companies and suppliers will be in attendance looking show off their latest innovations.
There also will be an influx of top executives floating around Motown so the potential for breaking news is high this week. TheDetroitBureau’s entire team will be at the event so make certain to check the website early and often for breaking news.