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2007 Detroit Auto Show - Auto Racing Day Presented by Michigan International Speedway Show Rolling With Driver Appearances And Interactive Exhibits


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DETROIT, Jan. 12 -- Auto Racing Day cruises into the 2007 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2007 with action-packed activities for race car enthusiasts.

During Auto Racing Day, which is presented by Michigan International Speedway (MIS), the NAIAS 2007 will celebrate the history and excitement of auto racing with a Racing Day theme in Cobo's concourse. Also in the concourse and in Michigan Hall, racing fans can get up close and personal views of NASCAR vehicles.

"Auto Racing Day is a great opportunity for race car enthusiasts to enjoy themed attractions and meet with celebrity drivers, all while being a part of the excitement that surrounds the NAIAS 2007," said Robert Thibodeau, senior co-chairman for the NAIAS 2007. "The themed-event even gives guests a chance to experience what it is like to be behind the wheel of a race car."

The event features NASCAR and Indy Racing League racing simulators in Cobo Arena, Michigan Hall and Cobo Hall for those attendees with a need for speed. Several celebrity drivers also will take part in Auto Racing Day and sign autographs during the event.

Drivers will be making appearances and signing autographs in Michigan Hall throughout the day. The noon to 1 p.m. autograph session will feature Sam Hornish, Jr., IndyCar Series Driver; Frank Kimmel, ARCA RE/MAX Series Driver; Jordan Dick, Formula BMW USA Junior Driver; and Hillary Will, NHRA Top-Fuel Dragster Racer. The 1 to 2 p.m. session will feature Ron Fellows, American Le Mans Series Driver; Vitor Meira, IndyCar Series Driver; and Dan Wheldon, IndyCar Series Driver, and the 2 to 3 p.m. session will host Helio Castroneves, IndyCar Series Driver; Chris Dyson, American Le Mans Series Driver; and Sarah Fisher, IndyCar Series Driver. Driver appearances are subject to change, please review www.naias.com for specific details.

In addition, race car enthusiasts can enjoy the many exhibits which will showcase different aspects of racing. Michigan Hall will include displays from Micro Reality race cars, MSU Formula One Racing and MIS. At its exhibit, MIS will be handing out limited edition 2007 Michigan International Speedway wall calendars and t-shirts while supplies last. The Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix and American Le Mans Series also will have exhibits at the event.

"The NAIAS is pleased to designate a specific day to celebrate auto racing," said Carl Galeana, co-chairman for the NAIAS 2007. "This one-day event is a great addition to the NAIAS 2007's celebration of automotive design and technology."

For more information about the event's exciting attractions and guest appearances, visit www.naias.com.

This is the second year in a row the NAIAS has hosted an Auto Racing Day event. The Jan. 18, 2007 event runs from 9 a.m.-10 p.m. and costs $12 USD ($14 CAN) for adults and $6 USD ($7 CAN) for senior citizens 65 and older and children 7 to 12. Tickets are on sale now at http://www.naias.com/SubPage.aspx?id=308.

100th Anniversary

In 2007, the Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA) will celebrate the centennial of its successful association with the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Since its inception in 1907, the show has grown from a regional event featuring 17 exhibitors to an internationally-sanctioned show with over 90 exhibitors, adding more than $500 million to the metro Detroit region last year alone. With the support of Detroit area auto dealers the NAIAS features more new vehicle debuts and garners more media coverage than any show in North America.

  NAIAS 2007 Official Dates
  Public Days are Saturday, Jan. 13, through Sunday, Jan. 21, 2007.

  The North American International Auto Show
  Rod Alberts - Executive Director

Entering its 19th year as an international event, the North American International Auto Show is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world and is 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 NAIAS Web site can be accessed at http://www.naias.com/. The drive, design and desire for cars is here in Detroit!