9:59 PM | 0
comments | Read More
Showing posts with label AUTO SHOW. Show all posts
Showing posts with label AUTO SHOW. Show all posts
Volvo Follow The Tokyo Motor Show
Written By nyit on Monday, March 1, 2010 | 6:56 PM
Volvo, the Swedish unit of Ford Motor Co., will not participate in the Tokyo Motor Show this fall.
"We have evaluated our participation at motor shows for 2009 to see how we can make the most out of our resources, and this year we decided not to participate at Tokyo," Volvo spokeswoman Maria Bohlin said today in an e-mail.
Ford Motor Co. said earlier this week it would not participate in the show, but a spokeswoman said she could not comment on plans for Volvo or Mazda Motor Corp.
Mazda will participate in this year's show. Last year, Ford raised $540 million by cutting its stake in Mazda from 33.4 percent to just over 13 percent, but the two automakers will continue joint ventures and the sharing of vehicle platforms and powertrains.
Ford joined General Motors and Chrysler LLC in skipping the event this year. Pullouts by non-Japanese automakers and concerns raised by some Japanese automakers stemming from the global auto sales slowdown have cast doubt on whether the October 21-22 show will take place.
The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association will decide by early next month whether to postpone the show, Toshihiro Iwatake, JAMA's executive director, told Automotive News earlier this week.
If the event is canceled, the next Tokyo Motor Show would be in 2011, Iwatake said.
Several auto companies pulled out of the Detroit auto show, which opens to the public tomorrow. The missing companies included Nissan Motor Co., Suzuki Motor Corp., Porsche AG, Rolls-Royce and Land Rover. Mitsubishi Motors Corp. canceled its corporate presence, but local Mitsubishi dealers put together an exhibit.
Some participating automakers, including federal loan recipients Chrysler LLC and General Motors, toned down their Detroit displays and built single-story exhibition stands to save money.
6:56 PM | 0
comments | Read More
Tokyo Auto Show Suzuki X-Head Concept
Written By nyit on Thursday, January 14, 2010 | 4:30 AM
Tokyo Auto Show Suzuki X-Head Concept
Tokyo Auto Show Suzuki X-Head Concept
4:30 AM | 0
comments | Read More
Tokyo Auto Show Suzuki X-Head Concept
Tokyo Auto Show Suzuki X-Head ConceptTokyo Auto Show Suzuki X-Head Concept
4:30 AM | 0
comments | Read More
Feature: Best of 2009 Shanghai Auto Show
Written By nyit on Friday, October 30, 2009 | 8:10 AM
Detroit may be in the doldrums, but Shanghai is swinging: the Chinese motor industry is growing rapidly, investing in design expertise and preparing to have a significant global impact in coming years.
And besides the domestic manufacturers, who are producing ever-more interesting concepts, the established European and Western car-makers are finding that they can't afford to ignore China, where new-car sales are rising exponentially. Here's the low-down on the most important cars of this year's Shanghai Auto Show.
Bertone Mantide
Based on the 620bhp Corvette ZR1, the insectile Mantide (Italian for 'praying mantis') is a one-off, road-legal creation from the Stile Bertone studio for a private client.
Designer Jason Castriota - the man behind the one-off Pininfarina P4/5 - says it's inspired by jet-fighter aircraft, and its fuselage-type body, butterfly-opening doors and canopy certainly make it look ready to fly away.
Though the underpinnings are Corvette, the extra-aerodynamic Mantide is some 100kg lighter, thanks to its carbon fibre bodyshell and interior - which help it to 217mph and 0-60mph in less than 3.5 seconds. Downforce is 30% better than that of the Corvette, thankfully.
Buick Business Concept
Chinese buyers love GM's Buick brand - they see it as the epitome of American luxury - and the Business Concept MPV is suitably kitted out with armchair-type seats, plush burgundy and cream suede upholstery and carpets, and high-tech LED displays.
The work of the GM-SAIC Pan-Asia joint research and development facility, it incorporates traditional Chinese patterns in its trim, and evokes Chinese crystal sculptures in its headlight design. It shares its hardware with the Chevrolet Orlando and thus also the upcoming new Vauxhall Zafira, and also previews a next-generation GM hybrid powertrain.
Source:http://www.channel4.com
8:10 AM | 0
comments | Read More
2009 Auto Show Calendar
Written By nyit on Friday, February 6, 2009 | 6:16 AM
January 2009
Through January 25
North American International Auto Show
Cobo Conference and Exhibition Center, Detroit, Mich.
January 16 — January 18
South Carolina International Auto Show
Palmetto Expo Center, Greenville, S.C.
January 16 — January 19
Utah International Auto Expo
South Towne Exposition Center, Sandy, Utah
January 16 — January 25
Montreal International Auto Show
Montreal, Ontario, Canada
January 22 — January 25
Midlands International Auto and Truck Show
QWEST Center, Omaha, Neb.
January 22 — January 25
New Jersey Auto Show
Meadowlands Exposition Center, Secaucus, N.J.
January 22 — January 25
Greater Toledo Auto Show
SeaGate Convention Center, Toledo, Ohio
January 23 — January 25
West Virginia International Auto Show
Charleston Civic Center, Charleston, W.Va.
January 23 — January 25
Mississippi International Auto Show
Jackson Convention Complex, Jackson, Miss.
January 24 — February 1
Houston Auto Show
Reliant Center, Houston, Texas
January 28 — February 1
Pennsylvania Auto and Boat Show
Pennsylvania State Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg, Pa.
January 28 — February 1
St. Louis Auto Show
America's Center & Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis, Mo.
January 31 — February 8
Philadelphia International Auto Show
Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia, Pa.
February 2009
February 4 — February 8
Washington Auto Show
Washington, District of Columbia
February 4 — February 8
101st Annual Syracuse Auto Expo
OnCenter and War Memorial, Syracuse, N.Y.
February 4 — February 8
Buffalo International Auto Show
Buffalo, N.Y.
February 5 — February 8
Michigan International Auto Show
De Vos Place, Grand Rapids, Mich.
February 5 — February 8
Portland International Auto Show
Oregon Convention Center, Portland, Ore.
February 6 — February 9
Iowa-Illinois Regional Auto Show
RiverCenter Convention Center, Davenport, Iowa
February 12 — February 15
Baltimore — Motor Trend International Auto Show
Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore, Md.
February 12 — February 15
North Carolina International Auto Expo
Jim Graham Building at the NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh, N.C.
February 12 — February 15
Pittsburgh Auto Show
David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh, Pa.
February 13 — February 15
Jacksonville International Car and Truck Show
Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, Jacksonville, Fla
February 13 — February 15
Spokane International Auto Show
Spokane Interstate Fairgrounds, Spokane, Wash.
February 13 — February 21
Chicago Auto Show
McCormick Place South, Chicago, Ill.
February 13 — February 22
Canadian International Auto Show
Metro Toronto Convention Centre & Rogers Centre, Toronto, Ontario
February 18 — February 22
Dallas Auto Show
Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, Texas
February 19 — February 22
Cincinnati Auto Expo
Cincinnati Convention Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
February 20 — February 22
Louisville New Car Show
Kentucky Fair and Expo Center, Louisville, Ky.
February 21 — March 1
Greater Milwaukee Auto Show
Midwest Airlines Center, Milwaukee, Wis.
February 25 — March 1
Rochester International Auto Show
Rochester Riverside Convention Center, Rochester, N.Y.
February 26 — March 1
Edmonton Motor Show
Edmonton, Alberta
February 27 — March 9
Melbourne International Motor Show
Melbourne, Australia
February 28 — March 8
Cleveland Auto Show
International Exposition (I-X) Center, Cleveland, Ohio
March 2009
March 5 — March 8
Oklahoma City International Auto Show
Oklahoma State Fairgrounds, Oklahoma City, Okla.
March 5 — March 15
Geneva Motor Show
Geneva, Switzerland
March 11 — March 15
Calgary International Auto & Truck Show
Calgary Roundup Centre & Corral, Calgary, Alberta
March 11 — March 15
Greater Kansas City International Auto Show
Bartle Hall, Kansas City, Mo.
March 13 — March 15
Virginia Motor Trend International Auto Show
Greater Richmond Convention Center, Richmond, Va.
March 14 — March 22
Atlanta Journal-Constitution International Auto Show
Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Ga.
March 19 — March 22
Columbus International Auto Show
Greater Columbus Convention Center, Columbus, Ohio
March 20 — March 22
New Orleans International Auto Show
Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, La.
March 21 — March 29
Greater Minneapolis/St. Paul International Auto Show
Minneapolis Convention Center, Minneapolis, Minn.
March 26 — March 29
First Hawaiian International Auto Show
Hawaii Convention Center, Honolulu, Hawaii
April 2009
April 1 — April 5
Denver Auto Show
Colorado Convention Center Denver, Colo.
April 2 — April 12
Seoul Motor Show
KINTEX, Seoul, Korea
April 3 — April 5
Albany Auto Show
The Times Union Center, Albany, N.Y.
April 10 — April 19
New York International Auto Show
Jacob Javits Convention Center, New York, N.Y.
April 17 — April 19
StatesmanCars Auto Show
Austin Convention Center, Austin, Texas
April 17 — April 19
New Mexico International Auto Show
Albuquerque Convention Center, Albuquerque, N.M.
April 20 — April 28
Auto Shanghai
Shanghai New International Expo Center
April 21 — April 25
Comtrans 2009
Crocus Exhibition Centre, Moscow, Russia
September 2009
September 17 — September 27
Frankfurt International Motor Show
Frankfurt, Germany
September 18 — September 20
Glenmoor Gathering of Significant Automobiles
Glenmoor Country Club, Canton, Ohio
Texas State Fair Auto Show
Dallas, Texas
October 2009
October 2 — October 4
Delaware Auto Show
Wilmington, Del.
Tokyo Motor Show
San Antonio International Auto and Truck Show
San Antonio, Texas
Central California Auto Show
Fresno, Calif.
Auto Expo Long Island
Long Island, N.Y.
November 2009
November 12 — November 15
Sacramento International Auto Show
Cal Expo Sacramento, Calif.
November 19 — November 22
Charlotte International Auto Show
Charlotte Convention Center, Charlotte, N.C.
Seattle International Auto Show
Qwest Field Event Center, Seattle, Wash.
Alabama International Auto Show
Birmingham, Ala.
Memphis International Auto Show
Memphis, Tenn.
South Florida Auto Show
Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami, Fla.
Nashville International Auto Show
Nashville Convention Center, Nashville, Tenn.
Connecticut International Auto Show
Connecticut Expo Center, Hartford,
Central Florida International Auto Show
Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Fla.
Arizona International Auto Show
Civic Plaza, Phoenix, Ariz.
Puerto Rico Auto Show
San Juan, Puerto Rico
December 2009
New England International Auto Show
Convention & Exhibition Center, Boston, Mass.
Tampa Bay International Auto Show
Convention Center, Tampa, Fla.
Indianapolis Auto Show
Indianapolis, Ind.
San Diego International Auto Show
San Diego, Calif.
Through January 25
North American International Auto Show
Cobo Conference and Exhibition Center, Detroit, Mich.
January 16 — January 18
South Carolina International Auto Show
Palmetto Expo Center, Greenville, S.C.
January 16 — January 19
Utah International Auto Expo
South Towne Exposition Center, Sandy, Utah
January 16 — January 25
Montreal International Auto Show
Montreal, Ontario, Canada
January 22 — January 25
Midlands International Auto and Truck Show
QWEST Center, Omaha, Neb.
January 22 — January 25
New Jersey Auto Show
Meadowlands Exposition Center, Secaucus, N.J.
January 22 — January 25
Greater Toledo Auto Show
SeaGate Convention Center, Toledo, Ohio
January 23 — January 25
West Virginia International Auto Show
Charleston Civic Center, Charleston, W.Va.
January 23 — January 25
Mississippi International Auto Show
Jackson Convention Complex, Jackson, Miss.
January 24 — February 1
Houston Auto Show
Reliant Center, Houston, Texas
January 28 — February 1
Pennsylvania Auto and Boat Show
Pennsylvania State Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg, Pa.
January 28 — February 1
St. Louis Auto Show
America's Center & Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis, Mo.
January 31 — February 8
Philadelphia International Auto Show
Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia, Pa.
February 2009
February 4 — February 8
Washington Auto Show
Washington, District of Columbia
February 4 — February 8
101st Annual Syracuse Auto Expo
OnCenter and War Memorial, Syracuse, N.Y.
February 4 — February 8
Buffalo International Auto Show
Buffalo, N.Y.
February 5 — February 8
Michigan International Auto Show
De Vos Place, Grand Rapids, Mich.
February 5 — February 8
Portland International Auto Show
Oregon Convention Center, Portland, Ore.
February 6 — February 9
Iowa-Illinois Regional Auto Show
RiverCenter Convention Center, Davenport, Iowa
February 12 — February 15
Baltimore — Motor Trend International Auto Show
Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore, Md.
February 12 — February 15
North Carolina International Auto Expo
Jim Graham Building at the NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh, N.C.
February 12 — February 15
Pittsburgh Auto Show
David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh, Pa.
February 13 — February 15
Jacksonville International Car and Truck Show
Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, Jacksonville, Fla
February 13 — February 15
Spokane International Auto Show
Spokane Interstate Fairgrounds, Spokane, Wash.
February 13 — February 21
Chicago Auto Show
McCormick Place South, Chicago, Ill.
February 13 — February 22
Canadian International Auto Show
Metro Toronto Convention Centre & Rogers Centre, Toronto, Ontario
February 18 — February 22
Dallas Auto Show
Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, Texas
February 19 — February 22
Cincinnati Auto Expo
Cincinnati Convention Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
February 20 — February 22
Louisville New Car Show
Kentucky Fair and Expo Center, Louisville, Ky.
February 21 — March 1
Greater Milwaukee Auto Show
Midwest Airlines Center, Milwaukee, Wis.
February 25 — March 1
Rochester International Auto Show
Rochester Riverside Convention Center, Rochester, N.Y.
February 26 — March 1
Edmonton Motor Show
Edmonton, Alberta
February 27 — March 9
Melbourne International Motor Show
Melbourne, Australia
February 28 — March 8
Cleveland Auto Show
International Exposition (I-X) Center, Cleveland, Ohio
March 2009
March 5 — March 8
Oklahoma City International Auto Show
Oklahoma State Fairgrounds, Oklahoma City, Okla.
March 5 — March 15
Geneva Motor Show
Geneva, Switzerland
March 11 — March 15
Calgary International Auto & Truck Show
Calgary Roundup Centre & Corral, Calgary, Alberta
March 11 — March 15
Greater Kansas City International Auto Show
Bartle Hall, Kansas City, Mo.
March 13 — March 15
Virginia Motor Trend International Auto Show
Greater Richmond Convention Center, Richmond, Va.
March 14 — March 22
Atlanta Journal-Constitution International Auto Show
Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Ga.
March 19 — March 22
Columbus International Auto Show
Greater Columbus Convention Center, Columbus, Ohio
March 20 — March 22
New Orleans International Auto Show
Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, La.
March 21 — March 29
Greater Minneapolis/St. Paul International Auto Show
Minneapolis Convention Center, Minneapolis, Minn.
March 26 — March 29
First Hawaiian International Auto Show
Hawaii Convention Center, Honolulu, Hawaii
April 2009
April 1 — April 5
Denver Auto Show
Colorado Convention Center Denver, Colo.
April 2 — April 12
Seoul Motor Show
KINTEX, Seoul, Korea
April 3 — April 5
Albany Auto Show
The Times Union Center, Albany, N.Y.
April 10 — April 19
New York International Auto Show
Jacob Javits Convention Center, New York, N.Y.
April 17 — April 19
StatesmanCars Auto Show
Austin Convention Center, Austin, Texas
April 17 — April 19
New Mexico International Auto Show
Albuquerque Convention Center, Albuquerque, N.M.
April 20 — April 28
Auto Shanghai
Shanghai New International Expo Center
April 21 — April 25
Comtrans 2009
Crocus Exhibition Centre, Moscow, Russia
September 2009
September 17 — September 27
Frankfurt International Motor Show
Frankfurt, Germany
September 18 — September 20
Glenmoor Gathering of Significant Automobiles
Glenmoor Country Club, Canton, Ohio
Texas State Fair Auto Show
Dallas, Texas
October 2009
October 2 — October 4
Delaware Auto Show
Wilmington, Del.
Tokyo Motor Show
San Antonio International Auto and Truck Show
San Antonio, Texas
Central California Auto Show
Fresno, Calif.
Auto Expo Long Island
Long Island, N.Y.
November 2009
November 12 — November 15
Sacramento International Auto Show
Cal Expo Sacramento, Calif.
November 19 — November 22
Charlotte International Auto Show
Charlotte Convention Center, Charlotte, N.C.
Seattle International Auto Show
Qwest Field Event Center, Seattle, Wash.
Alabama International Auto Show
Birmingham, Ala.
Memphis International Auto Show
Memphis, Tenn.
South Florida Auto Show
Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami, Fla.
Nashville International Auto Show
Nashville Convention Center, Nashville, Tenn.
Connecticut International Auto Show
Connecticut Expo Center, Hartford,
Central Florida International Auto Show
Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Fla.
Arizona International Auto Show
Civic Plaza, Phoenix, Ariz.
Puerto Rico Auto Show
San Juan, Puerto Rico
December 2009
New England International Auto Show
Convention & Exhibition Center, Boston, Mass.
Tampa Bay International Auto Show
Convention Center, Tampa, Fla.
Indianapolis Auto Show
Indianapolis, Ind.
San Diego International Auto Show
San Diego, Calif.
6:16 AM | 0
comments | Read More
Paris Motor Show
Written By nyit on Wednesday, October 15, 2008 | 8:38 AM
The Paris Motor Show (French: Mondial de l'Automobile) is a biennial auto show in Paris. Held in the fall, it is one of the most important auto shows, often with many new production automobile and concept car debuts. The show was the first motor show in the world, started in 1898 by industry pioneer, Albert de Dion. The show takes place in Paris Expo in Porte de Versailles. The Mondial is scheduled by the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles, which considers it a major international auto show.
Until 1986 it was called Salon de l'Auto. It took the name Mondial de l'Automobile in 1988.
The 2008/2009 auto show season kicks off this year on the river Seine in the city home to the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Champs-Elysees: Paris. Formally known as the Mondial de l'Automobile, the biannual Paris motor show is the home turf for Citroen, Peugeot, and Renault; and each French automaker is planning several concept and production-car debuts.
Joining them will be the usual complement of automakers from around the world, launching cars that will not only be sold in Europe but in many cases, the U.S. and worldwide as well. Among the highlights will be GM's rollout of its all-new Chevrolet Cruze compact, which will replace the Cobalt for 2011, the Ferrari California, the oddly fascinating ConceptFASCINATION from Mercedes-Benz, BMW's new X1 compact crossover, a concept crossover from Mini, and Mitsubishi's Lancer Sportback, just to name a few.
Right now we can bring you only a taste of what will be on the menu at Paris, but starting October 2, we'll bring you all of the latest direct from the Porte de Versailles show floor as it happens.
It’s not about the show, which as ever is one of Europe’s biggest and best; it’s about timing, head on into a global financial system potentially in meltdown, and the backdrop of an ecology supposedly threatened with extinction by the industry we’re here to celebrate. It’s bound to create a bit of a siege mentality, and many insiders mutter that that’s how they’ll remember Paris 2008.
But stick your head above the politics and the cars are still the stars, and that’s why it’s still a fantastic place to be. Not that they’re all gems, of course, and there’s still a gap to be bridged between just building small cars and building the small, clever cars that the world really needs.
And there’s nothing especially clever about the Alfa Romeo MiTo, but the smallest Alfa in a long time looks fabulous, inside and out, with the perfect blend of sportiness and quality. Next door, the Abarth version of the big-selling new Fiat 500 also shows that small and sporty can go together. At Lancia, the girls are very much prettier and the men more stylish than the new Delta, while on the Fiat stand itself the Fiorano Qubo mini-MPV reminds you mainly that Qubo is probably Italian for a small lumpy box.
The all-new Ka, on the other hand, is Ford’s smallest, but way prettier now than the original Ka blob — although to be fair, enough people liked that one to make it a success story in its own right. Citroen’s C3 Picasso is semi-cute too, in a chunky way, but you can’t help remembering that if you gave Pablo a pretty model and a blank canvas, he might see cross eyes and a big nose.
Over at BMW, they’re hedging their bets, going small but staying with the SUV trend, in the X1 Concept, which looks OK except for a feeling that it might have been delivered on the wrong wheels, which are far from BMW’s usual arch-filling proportions.
On the big SUV front, the Hummer H2 E85 offers an interesting twist, running on super-ethanol, which seems like an only partly viable way to save the planet. If you have to flaunt it, we prefer the Corvette ZR1 approach: 638 hp, 604 lb-ft of torque, 200-mph-plus — and if you have a problem with that, you don’t have to buy one. Ditto the Audi RS6, now in sedan form alongside the original Avant wagon, for anyone who doesn’t need to carry furniture or a dog at 170 mph and likes the sound of 10 cylinders and the thick end of 600 hp in the morning. Oh, and 45 years after it was launched, Porsche’s 911 continues to evolve as inexorably as ever, adding yet more power while reducing CO2 emissions by 15 percent. Clever Porsche.
Chrysler, sadly, doesn't look as exciting as it once used to, with highlights including a France-only ‘Executive’ edition of the no longer very new 300, and a 25th-anniversary version of the Grand Voyager, shown alongside the quarter-century-old original. GM, by contrast, looks to have hit the bulls-eye with its new mid-size family for Europe, the Insignia, which looks terrific, bristles with technology, and has quality to frighten a few far more exotic names.
And finally, hanging with the big boys, Bentley begins the phase out of the long-serving Arnage with the very limited edition Arnage Final Series, while Mercedes is likely to make even that look like a mainstream model with the elegant but heavily armored S 600 Pullman Guard — specially designed for heads of state and nervous businessmen who fear being shot at, and at a price that only they might be able to afford. That is if the global economy hasn’t collapsed even further while we’ve been walking round the halls.
But stick your head above the politics and the cars are still the stars, and that’s why it’s still a fantastic place to be. Not that they’re all gems, of course, and there’s still a gap to be bridged between just building small cars and building the small, clever cars that the world really needs.
And there’s nothing especially clever about the Alfa Romeo MiTo, but the smallest Alfa in a long time looks fabulous, inside and out, with the perfect blend of sportiness and quality. Next door, the Abarth version of the big-selling new Fiat 500 also shows that small and sporty can go together. At Lancia, the girls are very much prettier and the men more stylish than the new Delta, while on the Fiat stand itself the Fiorano Qubo mini-MPV reminds you mainly that Qubo is probably Italian for a small lumpy box.
The all-new Ka, on the other hand, is Ford’s smallest, but way prettier now than the original Ka blob — although to be fair, enough people liked that one to make it a success story in its own right. Citroen’s C3 Picasso is semi-cute too, in a chunky way, but you can’t help remembering that if you gave Pablo a pretty model and a blank canvas, he might see cross eyes and a big nose.
Over at BMW, they’re hedging their bets, going small but staying with the SUV trend, in the X1 Concept, which looks OK except for a feeling that it might have been delivered on the wrong wheels, which are far from BMW’s usual arch-filling proportions.
On the big SUV front, the Hummer H2 E85 offers an interesting twist, running on super-ethanol, which seems like an only partly viable way to save the planet. If you have to flaunt it, we prefer the Corvette ZR1 approach: 638 hp, 604 lb-ft of torque, 200-mph-plus — and if you have a problem with that, you don’t have to buy one. Ditto the Audi RS6, now in sedan form alongside the original Avant wagon, for anyone who doesn’t need to carry furniture or a dog at 170 mph and likes the sound of 10 cylinders and the thick end of 600 hp in the morning. Oh, and 45 years after it was launched, Porsche’s 911 continues to evolve as inexorably as ever, adding yet more power while reducing CO2 emissions by 15 percent. Clever Porsche.
Chrysler, sadly, doesn't look as exciting as it once used to, with highlights including a France-only ‘Executive’ edition of the no longer very new 300, and a 25th-anniversary version of the Grand Voyager, shown alongside the quarter-century-old original. GM, by contrast, looks to have hit the bulls-eye with its new mid-size family for Europe, the Insignia, which looks terrific, bristles with technology, and has quality to frighten a few far more exotic names.
And finally, hanging with the big boys, Bentley begins the phase out of the long-serving Arnage with the very limited edition Arnage Final Series, while Mercedes is likely to make even that look like a mainstream model with the elegant but heavily armored S 600 Pullman Guard — specially designed for heads of state and nervous businessmen who fear being shot at, and at a price that only they might be able to afford. That is if the global economy hasn’t collapsed even further while we’ve been walking round the halls.
8:38 AM | 0
comments | Read More
2008 Auto Show Calendar
Written By nyit on Monday, September 15, 2008 | 10:36 AM
NORTHEAST
April 3 - 5, 2009The Times Union Center, Albany, NYFriday: Noon - 9 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m. - 5 p.mAdults $7.50; Children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adultKim Perrella 518-452-0584 x. 202
February 7 - 10, 2008Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore, MDThursday: 12 noon - 11 p.m.; Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.Adults (13 & over) $10; Military (w/ID) $6; Senior Citizens (62 & over): $6Children (7 - 12) $4; Children (6 & under) FREE410-649-7000
February 6 - 10, 2008Buffalo Niagara Convention Center, Buffalo, NYWed. - Fri. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.716-631-8510
November 2 - 4, 2007NJ Convention and Exposition Center, Edison, NJFri.: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.; Sat.: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun.: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.Adults $8; Children under 12 $4; Children (under 4) FREEExhibitor Info (631) 724-4000Consumer Info (732) 417-1400
November 16 - 18, 2007Connecticut Expo Center, Hartford, CTThurs. 5 p.m.-10 p.m.; Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.Admission $10; Children (8 and under) FREE860-246-6566
October 3 - 5, 2008Chase Center on the Wilmington Riverfront
November 7 - 9, 2008Empire State Plaza,, Albany, NYFriday: 9
a.m. - 9 p.m.; Saturday: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.Admission is FREEKim Perrella 518-452-0584 x. 202
October 16 - 19, 2008Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Uniondale, Long Island, NYThurs. & Fri.: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.; Sat.: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.Adults $10; Senior Citizens (62 & over) $6; Children (4 - 12) $6; Children (under 4) FREEExhibitor Info (631) 724-4000, ext. 201Consumer Info (516) 794-9300, ext. 0
December 3 - 7, 2008Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, Boston, MAWed.: 5-10 p.m.; Thurs. & Fri.: 1-10 p.m.; Sat.: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun.: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.Adults $12; Children (6-12) $6; Children (under 6) FREE800-258-8912781-237-5533
January 22 - 25, 2009Meadowlands Exposition Center, Secaucus, NJThurs. & Fri.: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.; Sat.: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun.: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.Adults $8; Children (under 12) $4; Toddlers (under 4) FREEConsumer Info: (201) 223-1000
March 21 - 30, 2008Jacob Javits Convention Center, New York, NYFri.-Sat. 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.800-282-3336
January 24 - 27, 2008Rhode Island Convention Center, Providence, RIThursday & Friday: 12 noon - 10 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.Adults (13 and over) $9, Senior Citizens (62 and over) $6; Children (7-12) $3; Children (6 & under) FREE401-458-6000
January 23 - 27, 2008Pennsylvania State Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg, PAWednesday & Thursday: 1 p.m. - 9 p.m.; Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.Sunday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.Adults (13 and over) $8; Senior Citizens (62 and over) $5; Children (7-12) $5, Children (6 & under) FREEMilitary (w/ID) $5717-787-5373
February 2 - 10, 2008Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia, PA
April 17 - 21, 2008David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh, PAThurs.: 12 p.m. - 10 p.m.; Fri. & Sat.: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.Sun. & Mon.: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.Adults: $9; Children under age 12 - Free 1-866-575-3040
February 27 - March 2, 2008Rochester Riverside Convention Center, Rochester, NYWednesday: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.; Thursday: 12 p.m. - 10 p.m.Thursday and Friday: 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.Saturday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.Adults $7.50; Seniors $5; Children (6 - 12) $2.50; 5 and Under: FREE
October 6 - 8, 2006Area at Harbor Yard, Bridgeport, CTFri.: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.; Sat.: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun.: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.Adults $8; Children under 12 $4; Children (under 4) FREEConsumer Info: (203) 345-2300Exhibitor Info: (631) 724-4000, ext. 201
February 6 - 10, 2008OnCenter and War Memorial, Syracuse, NYWed. - Fri.: 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.; Saturday: Noon - 9 p.m.; Sunday: Noon - 6 p.m.Adults $7; Seniors $5; Children (12 and under) $2.50; Free under 5(315) 474-1041
MIDWEST
MIDWEST
February 8 - 17, 2008McCormick Place South, Chicago, ILFebruary 10 - 18: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., February 19: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.Adults $10; Seniors (62 and older) $5; Children (7-12) $5; Children (6 & under) FREE630-495-2282
February 21 - 24, 2008Cincinnati Convention Center, Cincinnati, OHThurs. & Fri. 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Adults $8; Children (13 & under) $2877-281-0022
February 28 - March 8, 2009International Exposition (I-X) Center, Cleveland, OHFridays and Saturdays: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.; Sundays: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.Monday - Thursday: 12 p.m. - 10 p.m.Adults $12; Seniors $9.50; Preteens $9.50; Children (6 & under) FREE440-746-1500
March 19 - 22, 2009Greater Columbus Convention Center, Columbus, OHFri. 3/9: 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.; Sat. 3/10: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun. 3/11: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.Mon. - Thurs. 3/12 - 3/15: 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.; Fri. 3/16: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.Sat. 3/17: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun. 3/18: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.Adults $8; Children (12 & under) Free614-799-2232
March 27 - March 30, 2008Dayton Convention Center, Dayton, OH877-281-0022
September 12 - 14, 2008Glenmoor Country Club, Canton, Ohio
March 11 - 15, 2009Bartle Hall, Kansas City, MOWed. 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.; Thurs. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.Adults $9; Children (8-12) $5; Children (7 & under) FREE913-345-8970
February 28 - March 2, 2008Midwest Airlines Center, Milwaukee, WIMonday - Thursday: 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.; Friday: 1 p.m. - 10 p.m.;Saturdays: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sundays: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.Adults (13 & over) $9; Senior Citizens (62 & over) $5; Children (7-12) $4;Children (6 & under) FREE414-908-6000
March 8 - 16, 2008Minneapolis Convention Center, Minneapolis, MNWednesday and Saturdays : 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sundays: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.Adults $9; Pre-teens (6-12) $4; Children (5 and under) FREE; Seniors (62 & over) $4 on Wednesday, March 15952-831-8019
January 24 - 27, 2008SeaGate Convention Center, Toledo, OH
December 27 - January 1, 2008Indiana Convention Center & RCA Dome, Indianapolis, INMon. - Fri. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m.Adults $6, Children under 12 FREE (when accompanied by an adult)All U.S. active duty military personnel - FREE (Must have ID)All active duty police and fire department personnel - FREE (Must have ID)(317) 266-8455, (317) 685-1028 Fax
February 5 - 8, 2008De Vos Place, Grand Rapids, MIThursday: 3 p.m. - 10 p.m.; Friday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.Adults $10; Children (6-14) $4; Children (5 & under) FREE616-447-2860
January 22 - 25, 2009QWEST Center, Omaha, NE
January 19 - 27, 2008Cobo Conference and Exhibition Center, Detroit, MISaturday, Jan. 13 - 21: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sunday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.Adults $12; Senior Citizen (65 and older) $6; Children (7-12) $5;Children (6 & under) FREE with their parent
January 23 - 27, 2008America's Center & Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis, MOWed. & Thurs. 12 p.m.-9 p.m.; Fri. 12 p.m.-10 p.m.;Sat. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.Adults $9; Children (6-12 years old) $5; Children (under 6 years old) FREE314-342-5000
WEST COAST
WEST COAST
April 1 - 5, 2009Colorado Convention Center, Denver, COWednesday & Thursday: 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.; Friday: Noon to 10 p.m.Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.Adults $10; Children (6-12) $2; Children (5 & under) FREE with adultSeniors (65 & over with photo ID) on Wednesday, March 28, 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.303-228-8000
November 21 - 30, 2008Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, CAFri. 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.Adults $10, Children 12 and under - free when accompanied by an adultSeniors (65+) $7 on weekdays (Mon. - Fri.)310-444-1850
October 2 - 5, 2008Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, CAThurs. & Fri.: Noon - 10 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun.: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.Adults (13 & over) $10; Senior Citizens (62 & over) $6; Children 12 & under - FREE
February 5 - 8, 2009Oregon Convention Center, Portland, ORThurs.-Sat. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.Adult $10; Children 7-12: $5 (under 7 free); Seniors (over 65) $8
November 6 - 9, 2008Cal Expo, Sacramento, CA Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sun.; 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Mon. 11 a.m. - 6 p.mAdults: $9; Children 12 and under are free$2-off coupons at all Central Valley New Dealer Association member locationsContact: 916-635-2728 or sheri@castlecommunications.net
December 26, 2006 - 30, 2007San Diego Convention Center, San Diego, CAWednesday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.Adults (13 & over) $10; Military (w/ID) $7; Senior Citizens (62 & over) $7;Children (7-12) $6; Children (6 & under) FREE619-525-5000
November 22 - 29, 2008 Moscone Convention Center, San Francisco, CASat. 22nd - Fri. 28th. 1st 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sat, 29th; 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.Adults $8, Children 12 and under: free with adult415-331-4406
January 10 - 13, 2008San Jose McEnergy Convention Center, San Jose, CAThurs.: Noon - 10 p.m.; Fri. & Sat.: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun. and Mon. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.Adults (13 & over) $9; Senior Citizens (62 & over, weekdays only) $6;Military (with valid ID) $6; Student (with valid ID) $7; Children (7-12) $5; Children (6 & under) FREE408-277-5277
November 5 - 9, 2008Qwest Field Event Center, Seattle, WAWed.: Noon - 6 p.m.; Thurs. & Fri.: Noon - 10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.Adults: $10; Children 12 and under: free when accompanied by a paid adult
January 18 - 21, 2008South Towne Exposition Center, Sandy, UTFriday & Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sunday and Monday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.Adults (13 & over) $7; Senior Citizens (62 & over) $4; Children (7 - 12) $4;Children (6 & under) FREE801-565-4400
SOUTHWEST
November 27 - 30, 2008Phoenix Civic Plaza, Phoenix, AZThurs.: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Fri. & Sat.: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sun.: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.Adults (13 & over) $9; Senior Citizens (62 & over) $5Military (w/ID) $5; Children (7-12) $5; (6 & under) FREE 602-262-6225
April 17 - 19, 2009Austin Convention Center, Austin, TXFriday and Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.Adults $5; Seniors (55 and older) $3; Children (under 12) FREE512-479-0425
April 2 - 6, 2008Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, TXWed.& Thurs. 4 p.m.-10 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. -7 p.m.Adults $11; Senior citizens $5; Children (12 & under) FREE214-637-0531
January 24 - February 1, 2009Reliant Center, Houston, TXFridays: Noon - 10 p.m.; Saturdays: 10 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.; Sundays: Noon - 7 p.m.Monday thru Thursday: Noon - 9:30 p.m.Adults $10; Children (12 and under) FREE832-667-1400
October 2 - 5, 2008Thurs. & Fri.: 2 p.m. - 10 p.m.; Sat.: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun.: Noon - 7 p.m.Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, San Antonio, TXSchedule and ticket prices TBA210-732-9647
SOUTH
March 14, 22, 2009Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, GASaturdays: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sundays: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Friday: Noon - 10 p.m.Mondays - Thursdays: Noon - 9 p.m.Adults $10; Children (6-12) $5; Children (under 6) FREE770-916-1741
November 26 - 30, 2008Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, FLWed. & Thurs. Noon to 10 p.m.; Fri. & Sat. 10 a.m.- 10 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.- 7 p.m.Adults (13 & over) $9; Senior Citizens (62 & over) $4; Children (7 - 12) $2; Children (6 & under) FREEStudents (w/ID) $4; Military (w/ID) $4
November 20 - 23, 2008Charlotte Convention Center, Charlotte, NCThursday & Friday: Noon to 10 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.Adults $8; Children (under 12) FREE when accompanied by adult
February 13 - 15, 2009Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, Jacksonville, FLFri. 12 p.m.-9 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.Adults $8; Seniors (over 65) $6; Children (6-12) $4; Seniors (65+) $6; Miliary (w/ID) $5800-261-6498904-630-4800 (after 3/9)
January 26 - 28, 2007Kentucky Fair and Expo Center, Louisville, KYFri. 2 p.m. - 10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun. Noon - 6 p.m.502-394-9920
December 14 - 16, 2007Cook Convention Center, Memphis, TNAdults $7; Senior Citizens (65 yrs & older) $4; Children (12 yrs & under) $31-800-726-0915
March 21 - 23, 2008Nashville Convention Center, Nashville, TNTicket prices and schedule TBA
March 20 - 22, 2009Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, LA504-831-8863
March 13 - 16, 2008Jim Graham Building at the NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh, NCThurs.: Noon - 9 p.m.; Fri.: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sat.: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.Adults (13 to 60) $7; Seniors (over 60) $5; Preteens (6-12) $4; Kids (6 & under) FREE
March 6 - 9, 2008Oklahoma State Fairgrounds, Oklahoma City, OK405-607-0400
January 18 - 20, 2008Palmetto Expo Center, Greenville, SCFri. & Sat. 10 a.m.- 10 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Adults (13 & over) $8; Senior Citizens (62 & over) $5; Children (7 - 12) $4; Children (6 & under) FREE864-233-2562
November 9 - 18, 2007Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami, FLFri. Nov. 4th 5 p.m.-midnight; Sat. Nov. 5th 11 a.m.-midnight; Sun. Nov. 6th 11 a.m.-11 p.m.;Mon. Nov. 7th - Thurs. Nov. 10th 2 p.m.-11 p.m.; Fri. Nov. 11th 2 p.m.-midnight; Sat. Nov. 12th 11 a.m.-midnight; Sunday Nov. 13th, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.Adults $10; Children (6-12) $3
November 6 - 9, 2008Tampa Convention Center, Tampa, FLThurs. & Fri.: Noon to 10 p.m.; Sat.: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.Adults (13 & over) $9; Senior Citizens (62 & over) $4; Military (w/ID) $4;Students (w/ school ID) $4; Children (7-12) $4; Children (6 and under) FREE813-274-8511
Tulsa International Auto ShowMarch 15 - 18, 2007Expo Center Tulsa State Fairgrounds, Tulsa, OK918-728-3249
Tulsa International Auto ShowMarch 15 - 18, 2007Expo Center Tulsa State Fairgrounds, Tulsa, OK918-728-3249
March 7 - 9, 2008Greater Richmond Convention Center, Richmond, VAFri. & Sat. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.Adults (13 & over) $8; Senior Citizens (62 & over) $5; Children (7 - 12) $2; Children (6 & under) FREEActive Military (with ID) $5804-783-7300
January 23 - 25, 2009Charleston Civic Center, Charleston, WVFri. & Sat. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.Adults (13 & over) $7; Senior Citizens (62 & over) $4; Children (7 - 12) $3; Children (6 & under) FREE
ALASKA AND HAWAII
March 6 - March 9, 2008Hawaii Convention Center, Honolulu, HIThursday: Noon - 10:30 p.m., Friday: Noon - 10:30 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.Sunday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.Adults (13 and over) $7; Senior Citizens (62 & over) $5; Military (w/ID) $5;Students (12 and over w/ID) $5; Children (7-12) $4; Children (6 & under) FREE808-943-3500
INTERNATIONAL
July 23 - August 3, 2008Canary Wharf, London, U.K.
February 15 - 24, 2008Toronto, ON, Canada905-940-2800
September 25 - October 2, 2008Frankfurt, Germany49-69-975-070
March 6 - 16, 2008Geneva, Switzerland
Feb. 29 - March 10, 2008Melbourne, Australia61-3-9829-1111
October 4 - 19, 2008Paris, France
10:36 AM | 0
comments | Read More
Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Touring Berlinetta Wins Best of Show
Written By nyit on Monday, September 1, 2008 | 2:41 AM
Sunday, Aug. 17, began as a typically foggy morning on the Monterey Peninsula, and the day proved unseasonably cold. But for Jon and Mary Shirley of Medina, Wash., the day could not have been brighter as they took Best of Show honors with their 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Touring Berlinetta at the 2008 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the annual collector car show and competition held on the 18th fairway of the Pebble Beach Golf Links.
The Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B was a prestigious grand touring car in the 1930s, and the Shirleys’ car is one of only six privately commissioned Berlinettas. Finished in a deep dark blue, the sleek Alfa Romeo coupe is built for speed with louvers in the hood that extend into the cowl, cooling slots in the rear fender skirts, and a powerful supercharged straight-8 engine that also powered Alfa Romeo Grand Prix race cars at the time.
“This car has an intriguing history,” said Jon Shirley. “It won the first race at Watkins Glen in 1948, and though the car’s been driven quite a bit, it’s never been wrecked. I’ve always been an Alfa fan, so winning at Pebble Beach just doesn’t get much better. I can’t wait to take it back on the road real soon.”
Each year the Best of Show award goes to the car from the pool of class winners that receives the most votes from a distinguished panel of automotive judges. This year, from the 26 different classes, the judges chose as the other finalists the 1934 Packard 1108 LeBaron Sport Phaeton owned by the Nethercutt Collection -- Jack & Helen Nethercutt, Sylmar, Calif., and the 1935 Hispano Suiza K6 Brandone Cabriolet owned by Sam & Emily Mann of Englewood, N.J.
“It takes an amazing level of elegance for a closed car like this Alfa to win here,” said Concours Chairwoman Sandra Kasky Button. “It requires the ultimate in style, grace and proportion. This car has all of that. It has exquisite lines, balance and all of the excitement that only an 8C Alfa can provide.”
Early in the morning, the typical Pebble Beach fog was so thick that competitors were constantly wiping moisture off the cars. The fog eventually lifted, leaving a cloudy, cool day for more than 200 competitors from 27 states and 12 countries.
"The Pebble Beach Concours has truly become 'the world's concours,'" said Button. "In addition to enthusiasts, sponsors and media from around the globe, this year we welcomed exotic, historic vehicles from as far away as Hong Kong, Monaco, Germany and Brazil."
Tonight Show host and regular Concours participant Jay Leno brought his 1953 Chrysler “tank car, powered by a 20+-liter tank engine. In addition, Leno helped raffle cars, diamond jewelry and Rolex watches. Total proceeds from raffles, auctions, sponsorships and gate receipts helped contribute more than $1 million to charity for the third consecutive year.
Leno raised $28,000 during the awards presentation by auctioning VIP tickets to "The Tonight Show," along with a personally guided tour of his garage, which houses an extensive car collection.
“The Pebble Beach Concours happens every year on the third Sunday in August, blending automotive design, craftsmanship and history,” said Button. “And the best news of all, with the $1 million-plus we raised for our charities this year, the Pebble Beach Concours has now contributed well over $11 million during the event’s history.”
Most Elegant Awards
The Best of Show trophy at Pebble Beach is the prize most coveted by the heavy hitters of the car collecting hobby. Second only to Best of Show are the Elegance Awards, presented to the most elegant car in four different categories.
The Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B was a prestigious grand touring car in the 1930s, and the Shirleys’ car is one of only six privately commissioned Berlinettas. Finished in a deep dark blue, the sleek Alfa Romeo coupe is built for speed with louvers in the hood that extend into the cowl, cooling slots in the rear fender skirts, and a powerful supercharged straight-8 engine that also powered Alfa Romeo Grand Prix race cars at the time.
“This car has an intriguing history,” said Jon Shirley. “It won the first race at Watkins Glen in 1948, and though the car’s been driven quite a bit, it’s never been wrecked. I’ve always been an Alfa fan, so winning at Pebble Beach just doesn’t get much better. I can’t wait to take it back on the road real soon.”
Each year the Best of Show award goes to the car from the pool of class winners that receives the most votes from a distinguished panel of automotive judges. This year, from the 26 different classes, the judges chose as the other finalists the 1934 Packard 1108 LeBaron Sport Phaeton owned by the Nethercutt Collection -- Jack & Helen Nethercutt, Sylmar, Calif., and the 1935 Hispano Suiza K6 Brandone Cabriolet owned by Sam & Emily Mann of Englewood, N.J.
“It takes an amazing level of elegance for a closed car like this Alfa to win here,” said Concours Chairwoman Sandra Kasky Button. “It requires the ultimate in style, grace and proportion. This car has all of that. It has exquisite lines, balance and all of the excitement that only an 8C Alfa can provide.”
Early in the morning, the typical Pebble Beach fog was so thick that competitors were constantly wiping moisture off the cars. The fog eventually lifted, leaving a cloudy, cool day for more than 200 competitors from 27 states and 12 countries.
"The Pebble Beach Concours has truly become 'the world's concours,'" said Button. "In addition to enthusiasts, sponsors and media from around the globe, this year we welcomed exotic, historic vehicles from as far away as Hong Kong, Monaco, Germany and Brazil."
Tonight Show host and regular Concours participant Jay Leno brought his 1953 Chrysler “tank car, powered by a 20+-liter tank engine. In addition, Leno helped raffle cars, diamond jewelry and Rolex watches. Total proceeds from raffles, auctions, sponsorships and gate receipts helped contribute more than $1 million to charity for the third consecutive year.
Leno raised $28,000 during the awards presentation by auctioning VIP tickets to "The Tonight Show," along with a personally guided tour of his garage, which houses an extensive car collection.
“The Pebble Beach Concours happens every year on the third Sunday in August, blending automotive design, craftsmanship and history,” said Button. “And the best news of all, with the $1 million-plus we raised for our charities this year, the Pebble Beach Concours has now contributed well over $11 million during the event’s history.”
Most Elegant Awards
The Best of Show trophy at Pebble Beach is the prize most coveted by the heavy hitters of the car collecting hobby. Second only to Best of Show are the Elegance Awards, presented to the most elegant car in four different categories.
The 1934 Packard 1108 LeBaron Sport Phaeton owned by the Nethercutt Collection -- Jack & Helen Nethercutt, Sylmar, Calif., was recognized as the most elegant open-top car.
The J.B. and Dorothy Nethercutt Most Elegant Closed Car trophy went to the Best of Show winner, the 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Touring Berlinetta owned by Jon & Mary Shirley of Medina, Wash.
A 1949 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500SS Pinin Farina Cabriolet, owned by Larry Klein of Santa Rosa, Calif., earned the Gwenn Graham Most Elegant Convertible Award.
The Strother MacMinn Most Elegant Sports Car Trophy was bestowed upon a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB Scaglietti Spyder California.
The 59th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance will be held on Aug.16, 2009, with Bentley and Bugatti designated as the official marques.
2:41 AM | 0
comments | Read More
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
LinkWithin
