Scion Auto Show Display Recognized for Creativity and Originality

TORRANCE, Calif., March 11 -- Scion's auto show exhibit received accolades from both the American Institute of Architect's (AIA) Chicago Chapter and Exhibitor Magazine for its creativity, individuality and representation of the brand. The display debuted last year at the 2002 New York Auto Show and has been making its way around the country at various major auto shows.

Scion took home the sixth annual Award for Design Excellence from AIA for its innovativeness, creativity, space usage, circulation, cost effectiveness and brand identity. AIA judged the Scion display at the 2003 Chicago Auto Show in February and recommended it as the top exhibit for the public to experience.

Scion also received a Gold Award in the "First-Time Exhibitor" category in Exhibitor Magazine's 17th Annual Exhibit Design Awards, under similar criteria. Judges also praised the display for being a complete departure from the usual auto show exhibit. Details of the award can be found in the May issue of Exhibitor Magazine.

"Scion wanted to create an environment that let visitors know that they had entered a clearly defined space distinct from the rest of the show," said Brian Bolain, Scion national sales promotions manager. "We achieved a polished, industrial, yet approachable feel by incorporating archways, mesh walls, metallic surfaces, music and distinctive lighting. We're proud to be recognized for our efforts by an organization and a publication both known for their design expertise."

The Scion exhibit, designed by George P. Johnson Company, is an example of what customers can expect from a Scion dealership showroom environment when the first two products launch in California this June. The auto show display includes accessory cases, plasma screen televisions and information kiosks where visitors can research the product and available accessories, all of which will be found at Scion showrooms.

The same Scion display design was also used in 2002 and 2003 for auto shows in cities including Miami, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Detroit and most recently, Chicago. It can also be seen next at the upcoming 2003 New York Auto Show in April.

Public Web site: http://www.scion.com/

NOTE TO EDITORS: Media Web site: http://pressroom.scion.com