Detroit Auto Show: Vehicle Introductions Bolster Multi-Activity Trend

    DETROIT, Jan. 6, 2003; The 2003 North American International Auto
Show (NAIAS) opens to the public January 11 in Detroit, Michigan, with vehicle
debuts that further substantiate a trend toward functional, multi-use designs,
according to analysis from CSM Worldwide.
    Demand for these vehicle types will drive North American production growth
in two segments: Crossover-Utility Vehicles (CUVs) and Multi-Activity Vehicles
(MAVs).  These combined segments will grow from 8.2 percent of the North
American production market in 2002 to 19.4 percent by 2007.  CSM forecasts
that total production volume for these segments will reach 3.4 million units
by 2007, up from 1.3 million units in 2002.
    "Consumers want functionality and utility along with superior ride and
handling," says Mike Jackson, North American forecast manager for CSM
Worldwide.  "Early sport/utility vehicles were rather utilitarian and offered
more size than the consumer really needed.  However, these new entries combine
functionality with style while offering the comfort and drivability a typical
car buyer demands."
    MAVs and CUVs will gain the most market share from small and midsize cars
and minivans, according to CSM analysis.  However buyers will still demand
many of the features and functions found in minivans.
    "Consumers will demand a lot from these vehicles, including all-wheel
drive, top-of-the-line entertainment systems, and plenty of functional
storage," says Jackson.  "There is tremendous competition in this segment and
the vehicles that offer unique features at a competitive price will be
successful."
    Examples of production and concept vehicles from the CUV and MAV segments
on display at the NAIAS include the Cadillac SRX, Chevrolet Equinox, Chrysler
Pacifica, Honda Element, Lexus RX330, Mitsubishi Endeavor, and Volkswagen
Touareg.
    CSM Worldwide supports more than 250 automotive suppliers with global
market intelligence and forecasting services.  With corporate offices in
Detroit, CSM Worldwide covers the global automotive environment from London,
Brussels, Prague, Sao Paulo, Tokyo, Beijing, Shanghai and New Delhi.