Cobo Hall in Detroit, Michigan is host to the 2017 North American International Auto Show. The event runs from Sunday, January 8 until Sunday, January 22. The show opened to the public on January 14, 2017, following the gallery, the industry preview, and charity preview. After attending the show myself on January 14 for the first time, I can truly say that it exceeded my expectations alongside many other college students’ right here in Michigan.
While at the show, people across the globe lined up to get a glimpse at some of the new cars, upgrades, and concept cars being introduced in 2017. Each company had its own large show booth hosting different innovations and attractions that would catch potential consumer’s attention as they strolled by. Chrissy W., a member of the Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority at Oakland University and Matt K., a member of the Sigma Pi Fraternity at Oakland University showed their interest in Lexus when they commented, “They have maneuvered their way to the forefront of automobile prowess.”
Unfortunately, the Auto Show did have a few things missing for some of its attendees. Alex Postlmayr, an Oakland University student studying under the department of Computer and Electrical Engineering, mentioned, “I would've liked to see more motorcycles or anything that has an engine in it. Boats would be cool.”
The Auto Show was host to numerous futuristic concept cars including the Cadillac Escala, Nissan Vmotion 2.0, and Mercedes-Benz Electric Intelligence concept car. Jolie Huynh, a member of the Alpha Delta Pi Sorority at Oakland University, stated, “My favorite car of the show was the Chrysler Portal not because of how it looks, but because of the fact that it can drive itself, which gave me a glimpse of what they future of cars can potentially be.”
After growing up in the Motor City and its surrounding areas, I find it refreshing to know that job as well as internship opportunities are available for students across the state. Not only did students enjoy the Auto Show in 2017, some even had the chance to help make the Auto Show happen. Jo Janko, an employee at George P Johnson (GPJ) stated, “I work for a company called George P Johnson. They build and design booths for several companies including FCA, Honda, Toyota, Lexus, Infiniti, Alfa Romeo, Acura, Nissan, and Mazda.”
The North American International Auto Show has been a running tradition in Detroit for over a century bringing in the masses from across the globe. Here in the Motor City, the car industry is in our blood and has had an influence both positively and negatively on families for decades. The Auto Show is the cherry on top of the cake for some individuals and has drawn them back to the show time and time again. When asked if she would come to the show again in the future, Amanda S., an intern at GM Financial, stated, “ Yes, of course! Like I said earlier, I have been connected to the automotive industry my whole life. My dad works at Fiat Chrysler and I now intern at GM Financial and I will always support these companies that have done so much for myself and my family.”
It is no surprise to see how much attention the North American International Auto Show receives each year, specifically from college students. With the automotive, marketing, advertising, communication, journalism, and many other fields in mind, students see all of the collaboration it takes to put the Auto Show each year. Little do students realize that the show has been brought to life by individuals who sat in their seats once before.
For more information regarding the show and ticket prices, please head over to naias.com. The North American International Auto Show in Detroit is an experience you will not want to miss this year!
