Detroit NAIAS news 2011-01-16

NAIAS First Public Show Day Brings 87,000 Car and Truck Enthusiasts
First Day Marks 3.5-Percent Rise Over 2010 Opening

DETROIT, Jan. 16, 2011 - With 55 vehicle debuts and overwhelming positive global coverage, the public continued the positive momentum of the 2011 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Attendance for the first public day, Saturday, Jan. 15, was 86,622. This represents an increase over 2010's first NAIAS public day by nearly 3.5 percent.

"The success of our Press Preview contributed to the amazing turnout we received at yesterday's first public day," said NAIAS Chairman Barron Meade. "All the buzz created by the media has built curiosity and excitement in patrons who are primed to learn about these trend-setting new vehicles."

The final week for one the world's premier events promises a full line-up of activities and experiences for show attendees.

Below is a brief overview of some activities planned during NAIAS.

* TUESDAY: Driving Michigan Forward: A Panel Discussion on Advanced Auto Manufacturing and Michigan's Future: Presented by Michigan Businesses for Clean Energy. A panel of national experts from the automotive and consumer sectors will discuss Michigan's growing advanced auto manufacturing sector and the next generation of fuel-efficient vehicles. The panel will occur Tuesday, Jan. 18, 10:00AM -11:30AM, Cobo Center room W1-54.

* WEDNESDAY: NAIAS Education Day: A World of Opportunities: Presented by State Farm Insurance. Opening remarks, 8:30AM - 10:00AM in Cobo Arena. School groups in grades 9-12 and college level will have the unique opportunity to explore automotive career paths and learn about trends in the auto industry. Students will then be invited to visit NAIAS exhibits on the show floor to speak with representatives about automotive career information in small groups and one-on-one discussions. From 10:00AM - 3:00PM, representatives will have activities to keep students involved while actively teaching topics such as technology, automotive design, engineering, or environmental concerns.

* FRIDAY: The Detroit Tigers Winter Caravan: The Detroit Tigers' fan rally, including an interactive Q&A session takes place Friday January 21, 2011. The rally and Q&A will occur at 4:00PM in the Chevrolet exhibit.

* FRIDAY: Channel 7 (WXYZ-TV) Family Day at the Auto Show: There will be musical performances, giveaways and a chance to meet Channel 7 on-air talent.

-source: naias