Auto Show Move In Picks Up Speed

Detroit's Cobo Center is well along in its transformation into the North American International Auto Show.

Much of the early work isn't that noticeable, because it relates to the infrastructure. But that is work that needs to be done before the displays can be built.

"You've got most of the manufacturers that bring in their own lighting," says auto show co-chair Bill Perkins. "The lighting has to go in first, because it's up in the ceiling. They have panels to cover some of the scaffolds up there. We're very pleased with the way things are progressing."

Perkins taking WWJ AutoBeat Reporter Jeff Gilbert on a tour of Cobo, where some exhibits were taking shape, others were mostly scaffolding, and many were still in wooden boxes.

WWJ AutoBeat Reporter Jeff Gilbert talks with Auto Show Co Chair Bill Perkins

Unlike the last two years, where open spaces had to be filled with new displays, Perkins says the auto show's old problem has returned, not enough space. And companies are again planning more elaborate exhibits.

"Ford is changing up their display somewhat," he said. "GM is supposed to have a totally new display. You'll see a new display from Porsche."

Porsche is returning to the show after a three year absence. It will have a double deck display next to Volkswagen.

Press previews for the North American International Auto Show begin on January 10th. The show officially opens to the public the evening of Friday, January 14th, with the Charity Preview.

At one point, the black tie gala attracted 15 thousand people, at $400 a ticket. Companies would buy big blocks of tickets. The recession caused organizers to pull back the ticket price to $250, a more reasonable price for individuals.

"The individuals now have really stepped up," says Perkins. "You have a lot of people who really like Charity Preview more."

Proceeds for the Charity Preview go to several children's charities. The Charity Preview has raised more than $37 in the past seven years alone.

Cobo Center is under the control of a new authority, which has begun making infrastructure improvements. Perkins says these aren't the type of thing that people who attend the show see, but they make it easier to put on an auto show.

"We are very, very pleased with the progress we're seeing here at Cobo," he said.

Perkins say future years will see improvements to Cobo's exterior, and interior upgrades, like new carpets. Long term, the goal is to find ways to add more space. Auto show organizers say they'll need that space, because they believe car sales are coming back, and auto companies will want to display a lot of new products.