North American International Auto Show announces major overhaul, calendar move

DETROIT (WEYI/WSMH) As expected, the North American International Auto Show in Detroit will reinvent itself starting in 2020. The planned changes are many -- most notably, the calendar move from January to June.

Since the very first Detroit Auto Show in 1907, the annual event has always been held during the winter. Moving to a summer date will allow for expanding the show beyond the indoor halls of Cobo Center in a major way. Organizers envision a major festival-type event celebrating not only cars but also live entertainment, food and major speakers on the future of the automotive industry, including autonomy and mobility.

“Our show is undergoing its most significant transformation in the last three decades,” said NAIAS executive director Rod Alberts. “Detroit will continue to be a global stage for some of the world’s most significant and iconic vehicle reveals and host an unparalleled international audience of media and key industry influencers.”

The Detroit Auto Dealers Association runs NAIAS. The association and its board of directors held hundreds of meetings and conversations with key stakeholders as due diligence in exploring new opportunities for the show. Those stakeholders included automakers, suppliers, sponsors and government leaders.

“Our ultimate goal is to provide an experience and opportunity for participating companies and attendees that only Detroit can offer,” said Doug North, DADA president. “June will allow us to better showcase the automotive leadership, development and heritage our great city and region holds.”

“The North American International Auto Show is an amazing exhibition that showcases the most innovative and creative automotive companies around the world,” said Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder. “Moving the show to the summer opens up new opportunities for companies as well as creating new experiences for attendees.”

The 2019 North American International Auto Show will be the final winter event. The annual Charity Preview is Jan. 18. The public show is Jan. 19-27.