The news from the first two days of the 2013 North American International Auto Show was abundant. From a shiny red American icon to the “future of pickups” being unveilied, officials say 59 vehicles were unveiled at the Detroit auto show, which opens to the public Saturday.
DETROIT, MI- The news from the first two days of the 2013 North American International Auto Show was abundant.
From a shiny red American icon to the “future of pickups” being unveilied, officials say 59 vehicles were unveiled at the Detroit auto show, which opens to the public Saturday.
"As expected, our media numbers remained strong overall, and actually increased internationally - a critical factor for a global show," said Jim Seavitt, NAIAS 2013 chairman. "We welcomed 5,212 media from 62 countries, including new entries from Namibia and Singapore. We also saw more registrations from out-of-state U.S. media, which has led to a significant increase in national coverage."
The 2012 Detroit auto show featured 42 vehicle introductions, including 38 worldwide debuts -- 12 concept vehicles and 26 production models.
More than 500 vehicles are set to be on display at the show, which should have an economic impact of more than $350 million in Metro Detroit, and continue to help the city’s comeback.
Last year’s public show had an economic impact of $350- $375 million for Metro Detroit and attracted about 771,000 people – its best attendance for the public show since 2005. This year, according to officials, isn’t expected to be any different.
The 2013 Detroit auto show is open to the public from Jan. 19-27. About 60 vehicles debuted from the world’s top automakers during the show’s press preview days Jan. 14 and 15. The show’s industry days are Jan. 16 and 17, followed by the Charity Preview, which raised $3 million last year, Jan. 18.
Seavitt, president of Village Ford in Dearborn, expects upwards of 14,000 people to attend this year’s Charity Preview, which raises millions for local charities in Southeast Michigan.
NAIAS tickets can be purchased online at naias.com or at the door for $12 for adults; $6 for seniors and children 7-12 years old; and children under 6 are free.
Follow all of MLive's coverage of the North American International Auto Show at mlive.com/naias.
Email Michael Wayland: MWayland@mlive.com and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/MikeWayland