In what is turning out to be one of the strangest Detroit auto shows in history, word has it that local Nissan and Infiniti dealers will be putting up their own display. This is coming after news that the US corporate divisions of Nissan and Infiniti have backed out of the show.
"The ultimate, core purpose of auto shows is to create excitement among consumers and generate sales. That's what we're doing," said Doug Fox, co-chairman of the NAIAS and an Ann Arbor Nissan dealer.
Chicago: Yes or No?
Also, Nissan has changed their plans for Chicago. Originally the Chicago was also going to be axed by Nissan and Infiniti. Now those plans have been changed, and the corporate headquarters will once again have a display there.
"After a careful review of this decision with our North Central Region management and our Chicago dealers, we have found a way to maintain a presence at the Chicago show through our dealers," Nissan said in a statement. "The decision outlined for Chicago does not affect our decision to withdraw from the 2009 North American International Auto Show."
Image: DAVID ZALUBOWSKI/Associated Press
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Now that makes a lot more sense. There's no reason to dismiss Chicago.
Also, I think it's a fantastic idea for dealers to show up at auto shows. As long as they aren't trying to sell me anything on the spot, I'm all for it.
Seems to me that corporate could dredge up the cash to put out the little Nissan board thing at least, even if they don't have lights & the whole nine, a la Chrysler at the LA show.
Portland OR's auto show works the same way. Local dealers contribute the cars while factory reps are on hand to answer questions outside the usual dealer expertise, and/or to describe show cars their manufacturers bring for display. There are no car sales at this show, though third parties do sell accessories.
"As long as they aren't trying to sell me anything on the spot, I'm all for it."
Then don't ever come to the St. Louis Autoshow. That's all dealers do down here. The point of them coming is to sell cars. I guess the shift from Detroit to Chicago is iminent, and a sign of the times. We'd naturally think New York or LA, but Chicago has the biggest space wise, and is the closest, both geographically and more importantly, calendar wise. No complaints from me. I've been to the Detroit show only a few times, and it's just too cold. But I go to Chicago every year.
The one main thing I like about auto shows is that there is no sales pressure at all. Having dealers there is potentially devastating - I would not go if I knew they'd all be selling. Just visit an automall if that's what you want.
Still, this may be better than nothing.
I just hope the dealer staff resist the temptation to spoil the whole affair.