2009 Detroit Auto Show

I look forward to the month of January for many reasons, but one particular reason happens to stick out.  This would be that January is the month of the Detroit Auto Show, known to others as the North American International Auto Show.  This is truly the premier auto show for North America, featuring a full list of international and North American premiers and debuts.  As one can expect, this year's event has had quite a different feeling and aura than previous years due to the current financial state of several of the larger automakers.  Many argue that it is difficult to celebrate new product launches when the futures of the automakers are in doubt.  I would argue, on the otherhand, that this is the optimal time to come out full force and display in front of the world all your award winning products.  I do understand and agree with the belief that displays and parties should be tuned down with regards to spending, in light of the current situation of two automakers stayling alive with bridge loans from the federal government.  The GM and Chrysler displays were very plain this year, lacking the two story structures and elaborate digital displays of past years.  But this does not mean that we must be afraid or ashamed to promote our strong line-up of vehicles.  If anything, this is the best time to launch innovative new products that will bring buyers back into showrooms.  There were many new key vehicles launched or shown at NAIAS, including the new Buick Lacrosse,Cadillac SRX, Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Taurus, and Chrysler ENVI line-up.  These vehicles definitely look even better in person, a reason why I encourage everyone to make the trip to Cobo Center in Detroit for the show.  These youthful and fresh new vehicles, along with stronger loan lending and a steadier economy, will hopefully bring an end to what has to be one of the darkest periods for the automotive industry, especially here in Detroit.

Robert Cudini