Multimedia News Release - 2006 North American International Auto Show Press Days Showcase Multiple Design Events

Events Draw Industry Experts, Icons and Product Innovation

DETROIT, Jan. 12 -- Press Days at the 2006 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) featured several design-focused events including EyesOn Design Awards, Designer Night, AutoWeek Design Forum and the Michelin Challenge Design, as well as numerous exclusive exhibits and many exciting production and concept vehicles.

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"It's obvious that these important industry events proved that vehicle design is an essential element of this media-heavy show and a significant draw for the more than 6,000 attending international journalists," said NAIAS 2006 senior co-chairman Richard Genthe. "Design is an important component that drives our rock star lineup of exclusive, elaborate exhibits as well as jaw- dropping production and concept vehicles."

New this year, the EyesOn Design Awards are indicative of the NAIAS' commitment to being at the forefront of design innovation. Presented by the Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology, the award's winners and categories included the Ferrari FXX for function, the Mazda Kabura for aesthetics and innovation and the Chevy Camaro for concept vehicles.

In addition, with its focus on exploring iconic design and its relationship to automotive and consumer products, the 13th Annual AutoWeek Design Forum featured celebrity guests John Lasseter of Pixar and Carroll Shelby.

The Michelin Challenge Design(TM) was created to celebrate, promote, publicize and give visibility to original creative thinking and innovation in vehicle design.

Lastly, the NAIAS 2006 was affiliated with Ford designer Camilo Pardo's Designer Night, a special reception to honor and recognize the significant contribution made by international designers to the automotive industry.

NAIAS 2006 Official Dates

Press Preview Days will be held Sunday, Jan. 8, through Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2006. Industry Preview Days will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 11 and Thursday, Jan. 12, 2006. The Charity Preview will be held Friday evening, Jan. 13, 2006. The public is encouraged to call 888-838-7500 for tickets to the 2006 Charity Preview. Public Days are Saturday, Jan. 14, through Sunday, Jan. 22, 2006.

  The North American International Auto Show
  Rod Alberts - Executive Director

Entering its 18th 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/ . Don't Miss It for the World!

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  Related Links
  http://www.naias.com/
  http://autoshow.msn.com/as/

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