It's not only the show where the cars are the stars, its the event of the winter that takes our mind of the bitter cold temperatures, and the cloudy, dismal skies, and transforms us into auto junkies!
The North American International Auto Show accomplishes that in grand style this year, with plenty of cars, sedans, convertibles, performance vehicles, cross-overs and SUV's.
General Motors was first on the list of press conferences, and within a matter of minutes, thousands of automotive journalists from across the nation and around the world were introduced to the Hummer HX concept vehicle. It looks like one of those giant Tonka trucks that guys played with when they were eight years old! And how that the guys are grown up, they might just get a chance to relive their past, if GM decides to put the vehicle into production.
So far, most of the automotive news conferences have sounded very similar: Each automaker is flaunting their R & D skills by talking about their plans to treat the environment with respect. Years ago, we would have heard about horsepower, and dual exhausts, chrome wheels, and four-barrel carbs. Now, all the talk is about hybrids, ethanol, hydrogen, fuel cells, flex fuels and bio-diesels.
And nearly every automaker is making long-term promises of offering the most fuel-efficient, environmentally-responsible vehicles, and still be safe, clean and fun.
Some pretty tough promises to live up to, but the auto execs are apparently prepared to stick their necks out on a limb and fulfill those promises.
And now, here are some examples of what you'll see at the auto show:
-- Saab's 94-X Bio Power concept SUV with a 300 h.p. twin turbo-powered engine that will run on ethanol;
-- BMW's X-6 four-door sports activity coupe and Beemer's 135i convertible;
-- Honda's hydrogen-powered FCX Clarity;
-- and Land Rover's LRX diesel hybrid concept SUV.
And that's just a FEW of the vehicles you'll find. And of all the vehicles under the roof of Cobo Center, you'll definitely find something that fits your budget, your desires, your fantasies, and your needs. There's plenty of classy, sassy, green, and mean, fuel-efficient, safe rides to discover at the North American International Auto Show.
Gary Lundy, WWJ Newsradio 950
