If you are going to this years auto show, be prepared to spend a little time, as seeing what is there will take a while. From practical autos that you see on the road every day, to expensive exotics that only come out during special occasions, it's all there. It kicks off today, Jan 19.
Something new that is happening is the opportunity to take a test drive. Cadillac, GMC and a few other automakers are giving people the opportunity to drive their vehicles. A valid license and a waiver of liability is all that is required. You get into the car with a factory rep and take a short spin around center city.
The weirdo's come out for this as reps have told about people that drive in excess of 100 mph, or get into accidents. one female recounted a driver who wanted to record her voice. She got creeped out and ended the ride. Then there are those that try to drive off the route that is dictated by the rep. The ride ends for those folks as well.
There are opportunities for people to stand inline for a passenger ride in a Jeep along an indoor obstacle course. Being a passenger is no fun, while a 'professional driver' maneuvers around the track at about 7 MPH. Still dozens stood in line to do it.
No salespeople are there to pressure you into buying anything. Kids have a blast opening and closing the doors of vehicles. They jump into the driver seat and play with the controls. Computer races are available. Then there are the sales booths for things like polish to shoe shine kits. A Go- kart raceway is there advertising races at their facility for $15.00 per race.
In this economy, that price may be steep to those trying to find a job. Those that need a new car can compare models right then and there.. Very few can part with over half a million for a new Rolls Royce. The insurance alone will run over 60 grand a year. Most people are there for Ford and Chevy, Mazda for example. Most of the dealers had bags which people could carry pamphlets . Ford missed the boat on this by only bringing a small number of bags. Perhaps their marketing people should have read this.
People are not going to wait for you to be restocked. There was a face-off between Chevy Camaro and Ford Mustang. Two halls were set up and several vehicles were on display. That sparked major interest in car enthusiasts .
One attraction that is gone from the auto show is the stars that used to make appearances. In the past Heather Locklear, Jennie Garth, Melanie Smith are just some of the people that helped draw people. Then the show went to a Q&A format with athletes. Now there is nothing. If an individual manufacturer brings in someone that may be a one off thing. However nothing is from the auto show and that is missed.
For more info such as times and prices go here.
Comments