Straightline

Most auto execs at the show understandably use one or more teleprompters during their lengthy presentations to the media. Sometimes, as in the case of Ford/Lincoln's Mark Fields, the teleprompter can't help pronunciation. So, I must give major kudos to Mini USA Vice President Jim McDowell who memorized his entire six-page speech and vehicle presentation. He certainly didn't nail it verbatim (they actually handed out the speech), but we got the gist and he managed to come across as something other than an audio animatronic in a suit. 

See the two partial videos below for most of his Clubman presentation, and note the lack of teleprompter. I especially like in video 2 when McDowell describes how he'll be up until midnight opening and closing the tailgates just because it's so much fun to see them open around the taillights. You just get the idea he really loves these cars.

Also, check out the man's shoes. If those don't say "I'm a Mini executive" I don't know what does. I was going to ask him about them, but somehow I felt silly asking about black and gray Velcro shoes in lieu of the shiny blue Mini Clubman sitting next to him. I'll let you know tomorrow if I see Bob Lutz cruising around the show in Skechers. -- James Riswick, Associate Editor

Video 1

Video 2