In a remarkable return to its traditional winter schedule, the Detroit Auto Show’s Charity Preview dazzled guests on Friday evening. Despite the heavy snowfall, attendees embraced the event's revival, marking its first January appearance since 2019. The show has endured pandemic cancellations and adapted by moving to September for two years. This year, it returned to its roots with elegance and resilience, raising funds for children’s charities in southeast Michigan.
Glamorous Reunion at Huntington Place
The Charity Preview, often fondly referred to as "auto prom," welcomed guests into the historic Huntington Place in downtown Detroit. For decades, this event has been a beacon of generosity, raising over $125 million for local causes. On this chilly evening, the venue buzzed with excitement as guests donned luxurious attire befitting the season. Mayor Mike Duggan and City Councilmember Mary Waters were among those who attended a private gathering downstairs before the main event commenced.
Guests' fashion choices reflected the wintry ambiance. Floor-length gowns and tuxedos were the order of the night, with many women opting for long black dresses adorned with fur and sequins or choosing unconventional hues like brown and nude. Athar Barakat, a resident of Detroit, wore an off-the-shoulder black dress with fur trim, accessorized with sparkling silver footwear and jewelry. Clare Pollard, a metro Detroit stylist, anticipated a theme of "classic glam," featuring sequined and vibrant dresses in colors such as chocolate brown, burgundy, and golden honey. Men, too, embraced bold styles; Curtis Christopher Greene, also from Detroit, sported a custom red suit symbolizing strength and resilience.
Bill Dobinski, proprietor of BB Custom Clothing, noted a trend toward colorful and playful tuxedos, including emerald green, burgundy, and cobalt blue. The shift back to January brought a return to classic formalwear after the more casual looks seen during the September events.
Fashion choices at the Charity Preview often reflect the auto industry's economic health. In 2009, when automakers faced bankruptcy, guests wore modest black wool outfits. By 2011, gala-goers celebrated frugality, boasting about cost-effective dresses. This year, amidst uncertainty in the electric vehicle transition, there is comfort in embracing timeless elegance.
The Detroit Auto Show's Charity Preview not only showcased automotive innovation but also highlighted the enduring spirit of community and tradition. As the industry navigates challenging times, the event serves as a reminder of resilience and unity.
From a reader's perspective, this event underscores the importance of tradition and adaptability. It demonstrates how communities can come together to support noble causes while celebrating the progress and challenges of the automotive industry. The return to January signifies more than just a date change—it represents a rekindling of passion and commitment to excellence.
The Detroit Auto Show has made a triumphant return to Huntington Place after a three-year hiatus, showcasing the pinnacle of automotive technology and design. Featuring an impressive lineup from over 30 brands, the event highlights everything from luxury vehicles to innovative electric models. Mayor Mike Duggan emphasized the significant boost this event brings to the local economy, particularly benefiting restaurants and bars in the area. The show offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore hundreds of cars, including several models manufactured in Lansing. Key attractions include never-before-seen concept cars and interactive ride-and-drive experiences. This year's Car and Truck of the Year awards were presented to the Honda Civic Hybrid, Ford Ranger, and Volkswagen ID Buzz, further highlighting the diversity and excellence of modern automotive engineering.
A Showcase of Automotive Excellence at the Detroit Auto Show
In the heart of winter, the Detroit Auto Show has once again opened its doors at Huntington Place, welcoming enthusiasts from far and wide. After a four-year absence, the event has returned with a bang, featuring cutting-edge vehicles and high-tech innovations that promise to redefine the future of transportation. Mayor Mike Duggan expressed his excitement about the show's return, noting that it has already begun to inject new life into the city's bustling downtown area. "The streets are buzzing with energy," he remarked, adding that the influx of visitors is a boon for local businesses.
The show features an extensive collection of vehicles from more than 30 brands, including some that were crafted right here in Michigan. Among the standout exhibits are the Chevy Traverse, produced at the Delta Township Assembly Plant since 2009, and the Cadillac CT5, built at the Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant since 2019. Brad Franz from Cadillac highlighted the pride they feel in showcasing these locally made vehicles. "We're thrilled to share our Michigan-made cars with the world," he said, inviting visitors from Lansing to come see the CT5 Blackwing and other models born in their backyard.
This year's highlights also include the unveiling of the 2025 Car and Truck of the Year winners: the Honda Civic Hybrid, Ford Ranger, and Volkswagen ID Buzz. In addition to these prestigious awards, the show boasts over 100 luxury cars, concept cars, and 20 attractions, including four interactive ride-and-drive experiences that allow attendees to test drive the latest models firsthand. The event runs from January 11th to January 20th, offering ample opportunities for car enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the world of automotive innovation.
From a journalist's perspective, the Detroit Auto Show not only showcases the latest advancements in automotive technology but also underscores the importance of local manufacturing. It serves as a reminder that despite global competition, American craftsmanship remains a cornerstone of the industry. The event's success is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Detroit's automotive sector, which continues to thrive and innovate. For visitors, it offers a glimpse into the future of mobility, inspiring both awe and anticipation for what lies ahead in the world of cars.
The once-renowned Detroit Auto Show has returned, but its impact is barely noticeable. With minimal news and participation from major automakers, the event has lost much of its former luster. The show now seems overshadowed by other international automotive events such as the Brussels Motor Show, Tokyo Auto Salon, and CES. This decline raises questions about whether the Detroit Auto Show is on the brink of extinction or merely transitioning into a new era.
Diminished Media Attention and Participation
In recent years, the Detroit Auto Show has seen a significant drop in media coverage and manufacturer involvement. Previously bustling with excitement and groundbreaking announcements, this year's edition was notably quiet. The only noteworthy news came from the North American Car, Utility, and Truck of the Year Awards. Even the 2024 Chicago Auto Show appeared more vibrant in comparison. Ford's introduction of the Mustang RTR and Mustang GTD Spirit of America Edition pales in contrast to past grand unveilings. The absence of substantial press conferences further underscores the event's diminished status.
The lack of enthusiasm extends beyond just media attention. Organizers have shifted focus away from media engagement, making it difficult to generate excitement around the show. The disappearance of the 2025 press conference schedule page suggests that even planning for future events lacks clarity. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, the allure of attending the Detroit Auto Show has waned significantly. In 2022, the event struggled, but 2023 showed some improvement. Unfortunately, the 2025 iteration did not warrant even a short trip into the city, indicating a concerning trend.
Mixed Participation and Public Reception
Despite its struggles, the Detroit Auto Show still attracts a mix of automaker and dealer participation. Major players like GM, Ford, Stellantis, Toyota, and Volkswagen maintain a presence, albeit at a corporate level. Dealers contribute to filling the gaps left by absent manufacturers. Indoor tracks and various exhibits help fill the space, though these additions do little to restore the event's former glory. The public opening tomorrow comes with ticket prices that may seem steep given the current state of affairs. Adult tickets cost $20, seniors pay $12, and children between 3 and 12 are charged $10. A family pass for two adults and up to three children is available for $50, offering a slightly better value proposition.
The question remains: Is the Detroit Auto Show dead, or is it adapting to a post-auto-show era? While high-profile shows have faded into history, there is hope that Detroit's iconic event can find a new identity. However, with limited new content and declining interest, justifying a visit to the Motor City becomes increasingly challenging. The future of the Detroit Auto Show hangs in the balance, and only time will tell if it can regain its prominence in the automotive world.