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Journalists Get Sneak Peak of 2001 North American International Auto Show

15 December 2000

Journalists Get Sneak Peak of 2001 North American International Auto Show

    DETROIT, Dec. 15 The organizing committee of the North
American International Auto Show (NAIAS) today provided some 200 local
automotive and business journalists a sneak peak and behind-the-scenes look of
the buildup of one of the world's most important auto shows.
    In cooperation with the Automotive Press Association, the annual NAIAS
press luncheon has become the unofficial kick-off to the auto show season,
according to Mark Snethkamp, the show's senior co-chairman.
    "For the second year we offered the media a show floor tour and special
glimpse of the construction phase of the auto show," said Snethkamp.  "It
really provides a unique perspective of the enormity of the show to those who
wouldn't ordinarily have such an opportunity."
    Snethkamp said the behind-the-scenes tour is also a way for show
organizers to publicly acknowledge the talent and hard work of the more than
1,000 people who help design, build and operate the show.
    "There used to be a time when the 'Detroit Auto Show,' as it was known,
could be built in less than a week," said Mike Savoie, NAIAS 2001 co-chairman.
"Today, it takes the NAIAS about three months, from start to finish, to move
in to Cobo Center.
    "Every year this show continues to get bigger and better," said Savoie.
"We've come a long way from fluorescent lighting, thin carpeting and one-
dimensional displays."
    And, while show attendees will be dazzled by two-story exhibits and
Hollywood-style presentations, the cars will be the true stars.
    "We are on track for NAIAS 2001 to meet or exceed the number of vehicles
that were introduced at NAIAS 2000," added Snethkamp.  "Last January 59 cars
and trucks were unveiled in Detroit, including 36 worldwide introductions.
    "We already have 39 worldwide intros waiting in the wings from
manufacturers around the globe.  Combined, we've accounted for 57 -- to date
-- North American and worldwide concept and production vehicles for NAIAS
2001.  Thanks to great people and great cars, this show continues to be
counted among the world's greatest international auto shows, along with
Geneva, Frankfurt, Tokyo, and Paris."
    Press preview days for the 2001 NAIAS will be held Jan. 7 through 10;
Supplier Preview, Jan. 11 and 12; Charity Preview, Jan. 12; and Public Show
Days, Jan. 13-21.