About the North American International Auto Show
Entering its 24th year as an international event, the NAIAS is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world, providing unparalleled access to the automotive products, people and ideas that matter most — up close and in one place.
One of the largest media events in North America, the NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles, the Paris-based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world.
The show is open to the public Jan. 14-22. More information is available at www.naias.com.
The Detroit Auto Show, also known as the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), starts next week. It kicks off with a few days of media previews, and I will be participating. This will be my second year covering the show, and I expect an even grander show than last year.
All indications are that the auto industry is coming back. 2011 was a solid year, and experts point to key indicators that 2012 should be even more optimistic. All of that will be on display at the Cobo Center in Detroit.
What I’m looking for, and will be reporting on, is what the automakers will do to increase fuel efficiency. Last year at NAIAS, it was all about the electric vehicle. That fuel efficiency trend is likely to continue this year as automakers go small.
One compact car that will be unveiled is the 2013 Dodge Dart, which will have Fiat technology and Charger styling.
I will also be looking at the concept vehicles. While many concepts don’t make it to production, you can generally get a good vibe of where future car design trends may be headed by seeing concept cars. And, the concept cars are always some of the most exciting things about NAIAS.
One such concept vehicle that might actually see production, or tip us off about future production designs, is the Honda Accord Coupe. With an Accord redesign coming in the near future, will this concept coupe show us anything about future Honda stylings?
You will be able to follow what is going on at NAIAS by following me on Twitter @wheelseditor. I will also be updating Wheels’ Facebook page with photos and news. Like the page at
Look for stories and photo galleries Sunday through Tuesday at daytondailynews.com as we preview the industry’s premier event.
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