Live Unveiling of the Finalists for the North American Car and Truck of the Year Awards at Detroit Economic Club Meeting

DETROIT, Dec. 9, 2004 -- Six finalists for the North American Car and Truck of the Year Awards will be unveiled live AND Dr. David E. Cole will deliver a keynote speech as the Detroit Economic Club (DEC) and North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) co-host a brunch for its members and guests. The event will take place on Monday, December 13, 2004 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and will be held at Cobo Center in downtown Detroit.

Prior to the live unveiling, Dr. David E. Cole, Chairman, Center for Automotive Research will deliver a speech titled: "The Auto Future: Surviving the Perfect Storm."

The North American Car and Truck of the Year Awards are given to vehicles that are benchmarks in their segments and the prestigious and independent awards are given annually by a group of 48 automotive journalists from the United States and Canada. While NAIAS is not involved in the awards, the news conference for the awards has always been held at the Detroit show.

Tickets for the event are $30 for members, $35 for member spouses and guests of members and $45 for non-members. Full tables of 10 may also be reserved.

The DEC was established in 1934, and is recognized worldwide for its contribution to the discussion and promotion of economic, political and social issues. The club has nearly 2,000 members and is recognized as one of the premier speaking forums in the United States.

The NAIAS is held each year at Cobo Center in Detroit and attracts visitors from all over the world. NAIAS 2005 Press Days are January 9-11; Industry Preview Days are January 12-13; Charity Preview is January 14 and the Public Show is January 15-23. For more information, visit http://www.naias.com/ .

For more information about the DEC, to order tickets, or to become a member, contact the DEC at 313-963-8547 or toll-free 1-866-4-ECON-CLUB or e-mail info@econclub.org or visit our website http://www.econclub.org/ .