2005 North American International Auto Show to Open in 75 Days

DETROIT, Oct. 26, 2004 -- In just 75 days, the 2005 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), one of the world's most prestigious automotive events, will open to the press on Sunday, Jan. 9, 2005 at Cobo Center. The event will feature world-class product unveilings, exhibits and press conferences from more than 60 auto manufacturers.

"We are proud to host one of the industry's most-anticipated events," said Bill Cook, senior co-chairman of the NAIAS 2005. "This year's show features some exciting partnerships, including an unprecedented live, two-hour national broadcast, presented by NBC Sports on the show's final public day, a partnership with WDIV-TV Local 4 and continued collaboration with MSN Autos. The event also showcases a multitude of press conferences, launching a variety of new product and concept vehicles."

NAIAS 2004 featured more than 70 vehicle unveilings. More than 6,600 journalists from 66 countries, including 264 TV stations, attended Press Days. In excess of 800,000 people attended the show during Public Days. NAIAS 2004 added more than $553 million to Southeast Michigan's economy, surpassing the combined financial impact of the Kentucky Derby, World Series and Indianapolis 500.

"The NAIAS has enjoyed extraordinary success in its 16 years as an international event," said Richard Genthe, co-chairman. "The global automotive community -- media and manufacturers alike -- look forward to the NAIAS every year as an unparalleled source of industry news, trends and the latest technologies. Our Charity Preview gala has sold out the last six consecutive years and is one of the most widely anticipated fundraisers in this region with the ability to raise $7 million for Detroit's children's charities."

The NAIAS encourages the public to call 888-838-7500 to inquire about the availability of tickets for purchase for the 2005 Charity Preview black-tie event scheduled on Fri., Jan. 14.

In addition, the NAIAS began media credentialing in mid-October. Media who have previously attended the show will receive a media-credential package in the mail. Those who have not attended the show can download a media- credential application from the NAIAS Web site, at http://www.naias.com/ .

John Bailey & Associates, Inc. (JB&A) Public Relations, headquartered in Troy, Mich., and NAIAS agency-of-record, will provide public relations and media relations support to local, national and international media covering the NAIAS. Contact JB&A by calling 248-362-4200. All general media inquiries can be directed to naias-media@baileypr.com .

Carlson Marketing Group (CMG) is the official travel management partner of the NAIAS. Enrollment letters for hotel room reservations have been mailed. Due to the high demand for hotel rooms during the NAIAS, reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Credit card information will be required to place a reservation. For more information, please visit https://www.exl.carlson.com/NAIAS2005 .

Due to new U.S. State Department regulations, overseas attendees may be required to apply for a visa in person. This can be done at the closest U.S. embassy or consulate. Since the time it takes to obtain a visa is unpredictable, overseas attendees should begin the application process immediately after travel plans are finalized. For more details and to see if you are required to have a visa, contact the local U.S. embassy or consulate in your country, or log on to http://travel.state.gov/ .

NAIAS 2005 Official Dates

Press Preview Days will be held Sunday, Jan. 9, through Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2005. Industry Preview Days will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 12 and Thursday, Jan. 13, 2005. The Charity Preview will be held Friday evening, Jan. 14, 2005. Public Days are Saturday, Jan. 15, through Sunday, Jan. 23, 2005.

About the North American International Auto Show

Entering its 17th 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 the 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/ .