37th Annual South Florida International Auto Show Opens

2008 Models Win Awards, Lure Crowds

MIAMI BEACH, Fla., Nov. 9 -- The South Florida International Auto Show opened its 37th edition on Miami Beach today with special events that showcased 2008 models with fresh styling, technology, efficiency and value. Also helping fill the Miami Beach Convention Center: 10 concept cars with design cues for the future.

At a special awards breakfast, the Southern Automotive Media Association (SAMA) announced two prize winners for this year. Star of the Show is the 2008 Cadillac CTS, the all new second edition of the sports sedan. Concept Car of the Show is the Lincoln MKR premium 4-door coupe with a cabin that includes such environmentally friendly features as mohair carpet, soy seat foam, chromium-free leather and re-engineered oak. Other concept cars at the show include a Chevy Camaro, Dodge Challenger, Ford Airstream, Jeep Trail Hawk and the Suzuki Wave 4-door convertible.

"We're off to a great start," said Rick Baker, show manager. "We have a sensational collection of new models this year, with lots of diversity and excitement. We're going to have an exciting 10-day run."

In breakfast remarks, Tim Hudgens, regional marketing manager for Chevrolet, detailed features of the all-new Malibu sedan and General Motors' other hybrid vehicles. "The new Malibu hybrid will help make our vehicles part of the solution to energy issues," said Hudgens. "GM wants to go from gas friendly to gas free."

As a major participant at this year's show, General Motors also used the South Florida event for the world premiere of its new hybrid Cadillac Escalade, a luxury SUV that improves city mileage by 50 percent. Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager, also unveiled a new Platinum edition of the vehicle with LED headlights, magnetic ride control and other pluses.

Press day events began with Peter Horbury, design executive for Ford, who introduced the new Flex 7-passenger crossover with second row footrests, a refrigerator, personal juke box and the popular Sync communications and entertainment system.

Nissan showed off its new Rogue SUV and Altima Coupe. As the presenting sponsor of this year's Heisman Trophy award ceremonies, Nissan photographed guests next to the 2007 bronze statue, specially delivered for the show. Nissan's parent, Infiniti, presented the Miami debut of its new EX-35 luxury SUV.

Hispanic magazine Sobre Ruedas repeated its annual awards ceremony at the show, with publisher Jaime Florez distributing 14 awards for its "cars of the year." Maserati introduced its new Granturismo, a 405 h.p. 6-speed berlinetta and stable mate Ferrari's exhibit included the F430 Spider convertible, 599 GTB Fiorano and 612 Scaglietti.

Troy Clarke, president of GM North America, addressed journalists at the show's annual luncheon and reviewed General Motors' commitment to alternative fuel systems, including its hopes for effective electric energy systems. Asked about GM's long term success in China, Clarke said "We're thrilled with our success there, and just as pleased at China's serious interest in electric technology," said Clarke. "In the search for alternatives, GM wants a seat at the table. We want to be part of the solution." According to Clarke, GM is introducing 16 new hybrid models in the next four years.

The South Florida International Auto Show is produced by the South Florida Auto-Truck Dealers Association, which comprises 220 dealerships in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe counties. The show runs November 9-18.