Auto Show Misfits

- by Chris Olliff, Senior Editor

As most of you know, we have just come off of the 2007 Detroit Auto Show  and most of us have “show hangover” which consists of hurting feet, empty wallets, and the desire never to step foot into Cobo Hall again. We have walked the hall 10 times over, and taken more photos than a Japanese tourist at Niagara Falls. Among my many travels at the show, I stumbled across what I like to call “The Hall of Misfits”….

Cobo Hall has a lower level that has some aftermarket companies, and there even used to be ½ of the VW stand down there…but not anymore……

Like those toys on the misfit island in the old Rudolf Christmas show we used to watch, having a stand down in the lower level is like being a part of a different culture. In the universal order of things, this is where you “pay your dues” until you can graduate up to the “big floor”. Yes, Hyundai and Kia got their start here, and it also is space for suppliers to be seen at the show. Not much foot traffic here, so it is a great place to take your time and have a quiet look around.  

This year’s group consisted of Saleen, XM Radio, Michelin, DUB Magazine, Chainfang Auto of China, ect. For the first time since I can recall, VW did not have any space down there this year. Without them, it seemed that this floor was an afterthought or that you had taken a wrong turn….

Don’t get me wrong, if you want to trick out your ride or get away from the hustle of the main floor, then you should have a go on the lower level. It will be interesting to see how this area may change in the future, but for now it seems like a great place for the “Auto Show Misfits”.

 

Comments

[Rich]

I have been to three major auto shows in recent years, namely New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, the latter of which is local and I go to it year every year. New York was a blast because it was simply a better show. The car companies invest a lot in full wall video displays, multi-level hardwood floors, and turntables that really show off vehicles. Cars are simply merchandised better there. The displays were two levels above Chicago and LA. This year, because LA is trying to upgrade its position in the circuit, its displays were significantly better, but it still not up to New York. I have heard that Chicago is also raising its on floor appeal. What has always been great about LA is that it is BIG!. There are four halls and the space used for cars is simply huge. It is an exhaustling show, and that makes you feel cheated when you go to other shows. But secondly, LA has a lower level with a huge room that is devoted to after market equipment, models, books, car keys - you name it! It is out of place at other shows - but from an entertainment point of view I have grown to appreciate it and look forward to walking up and down its isles and listening to barkers trying to sell the latest wax.

[Atul]

Rich, interesting comment. I have yet to go to the LA Auto Show, but I do know that the Chicago one is also huge and at a nice venue. Detroit is talking about updating Cobo Hall. I hope they do it soon before the limelight gets stolen. It's still the Motor City, but anything can happen.