Chicago Auto Show Media Preview Event Details

2017 Chicago Auto Show Press Pass Coverage

Chicago (Feb. 6, 2017) - The Chicago Auto Show has never lost sight of its biggest asset: the consumer. Foresight Research measured that 70 percent of Chicago Auto Show attendees come to shop, and 65 percent plan to purchase a vehicle within the next year. Exhibitors know it’s important to put their best foot forward in Chicago by bringing the latest vehicles, building world-class displays and providing interactive activities within their exhibits to keep show-goers engaged longer.

“We’ve heard repeatedly that the Chicago Auto Show not only jumpstarts car sales for the region, but it also helps stimulate automotive purchases across the entire country,” said Chicago Auto Show Chairman Mike McGrath. “Quite simply, Chicago outperforms other shows in reaching car buyers.”

This February, every automaker will be onsite and ready to engage with customers. In fact, the footprint of automaker displays grows by 55,000 sq. ft. this year. Notably, Porsche is doubling its show floor space. Attendees will again have plenty of opportunities to test-drive vehicles, with a record of five indoor test tracks and four outdoor test-drive opportunities.

Chicago’s also taking the lead in connecting attendees with exhibitors through an innovative registration program called epass. Managed by Chicago-based eshots, epass allows attendees to give and get information via a simple swipe of their ticket at locations across the show floor. epass will allow show-goers the chance to request vehicle information, register for test drives and enter contests. The program will also help exhibitors reach more consumers.

Also on the tech front, fans who download the Chicago Auto Show mobile app have the chance to win $20,000 toward a two-year lease on a new Buick Envision or GMC Acadia. Show organizers will engage fans through a series of social media campaigns using #CAS17, and will put a strong emphasis on Snapchat.

Leading up to the public portion of the show, the Chicago Auto Show will begin to build buzz and excitement with its Media Preview and other special events.

Concept & Technology Garage (Feb. 8) With advancements in technology, safety features and tightening fuel economy standards, today's automobiles are becoming increasingly complex. The Concept & Technology Garage is held for broadcast and automotive media looking to take a deeper dive into the latest concept cars, safety technologies and automotive telematics. This event will be held from 1:30-4 p.m. in the F2 Hall of McCormick Place. Media credentials are required for entry.

What Drives Her at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show (Feb. 8) The Chicago Auto Show has teamed with Female Factor, Women in Automotive Conference and She Buys Cars to co-host its first networking reception, luncheon and award ceremony. Bridget Brennan, author of "Why She Buys" and CEO of Female Factor, a Chicago-based consulting and training firm, will moderate the event that will honor and celebrate women with integral roles in the automotive industry. The luncheon is invite-only and will be held from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. in 270 Degrees of McCormick Place, West Building,

Nissan Media Reception (Feb. 8) The first vehicle introductions of the 2017 Chicago Auto Show will happen on the eve of press days at the Nissan@Midnight event Wednesday, February 8th from 4:30 - 8:00 p.m. at Revel Fulton Market (1215 W. Fulton, Chicago, IL). The press conference will begin at 5:15 PM CT. All credentialed media are welcome.

Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) Breakfast (Feb. 9) The 2017 Chicago Auto Show Media Preview will officially open on Thursday, Feb. 9 at 7:30 a.m. with the Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) breakfast. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Ralph Gilles, head of design, FCA - Global - will keynote the breakfast and MAMA will present the Family Vehicle of the Year.

Economic Club of Chicago Luncheon (Feb. 9) General Motors Company President Dan Ammann will take the stage to keynote the Economic Club of Chicago (ECC) luncheon, which begins at noon. The ECC is one of Chicago's finest business groups and has had a decade-long association with the Chicago Auto Show. Tickets and business attire are required for this event. Tickets are available in the Media Center, room N426.

Sweet Home Chicago To officially welcome media and exhibitors to the Windy City, the Chicago Auto Show will host an “all play” party at Reggie’s Chicago. Attendees must have their credential and a ticket to enter; the ticket can be obtained in the Chicago Auto Show Media Center, room N426.

For more information on the 2017 Chicago Auto Show, please visit www.chicagoautoshow.com http://www.idevmail.net/link.aspx?l=8&d=155&mid=375787&m=1479

2017 Chicago Auto Show Quick Links

Find out all about the Chicago Auto Show in our OFFICIAL SHOW UPDATE #3 http://www.idevmail.net/link.aspx?l=9&d=155&mid=375787&m=1479

Download the MEDIA PREVIEW SCHEDULE http://www.idevmail.net/link.aspx?l=10&d=155&mid=375787&m=1479

Download the SHOW FLOOR MAP http://www.idevmail.net/link.aspx?l=11&d=155&mid=375787&m=1479

Download key MEDIA INFORMATION http://www.idevmail.net/link.aspx?l=12&d=155&mid=375787&m=1479

Download the OFFICIAL 2017 CHICAGO AUTO SHOW PRESS KIT http://www.idevmail.net/link.aspx?l=13&d=155&mid=375787&m=1479