2008 Detroit Auto Show

"The Circus is back!"

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As you read this, I am fighting the crowds and elbowing my way to the front row during the Press Days of the 2008 Detroit Auto Show. The attached photo really does not do the scene justice, as the passion and energy of the assembled media to get that perfect shot or collect that last piece of info on all the new concept and production vehicles is hard to describe or explain. All I know is that I leave this event 100% exhausted but honored to be part of such an amazing industry.

So what will the big stories be? I expect the introductions of the 2009 Ford F-150 and Dodge Ram to further fuel conversation on just how out-of-touch the U.S. market is with the energy realities of today. I will never judge a truck buyer if they need that type of vehicle for work purposes. But when used as a fashion statement, I think a visit to rehab is in order.

2008 North American International Auto Show

Hybrids will be a big story, and I have predicted that 2008 will be the watershed year for these vehicles. Over the next 12 months, the "green/tree-hugger/look at me" stigma all too often associated with these vehicles will dissipate as new models are rolled out with Smart hybrid options. Large SUVs ... mainstream sedans ... fuel-sipping economy cars ... get ready for a hybrid trim level almost everywhere you look. And here is a new concept for you: high-performance yet fuel-efficient diesels. Yes, they exist, and they will be found in your local BMW dealer later this year or in early 2009.

And the last big issue will be the economy. Yes, vehicle sales are down. But they should be, as consumers have recently been entering unhealthy financial agreements to drive vehicles that they could never expect to afford based on future depreciation and expected fuel costs. 2008 will be a much smarter year for vehicle buyers, and all of the fun kicks off this week in Detroit. As we like to say here at IntelliChoice, always "Chose Your Car Wisely."

Posted on 2008-01-14 | Permalink | |

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