2008 Detroit Auto Show: (NAIAS) Industry Preview Begins with Emphasis on Design and Green Technologies

SEE ALSO: Complete 2008 Detroit Auto Show Coverage

DETROIT, Jan. 16 -- Thousands of automotive industry executives, engineers and designers will converge at the NAIAS today and tomorrow in Detroit for special events emphasizing design and green technologies. In addition to the events, attendees have the opportunity to network and view the incredible concept and production vehicles and exhibits on the NAIAS show floor.

NAIAS 2008 Industry Preview, co-sponsored by the Detroit Auto Dealers Association, Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Business Week, offers a unique opportunity for automotive companies to invite their key contacts, suppliers and employees to preview the many fantastic attractions at the show.

"NAIAS 2008 had an incredible start with the unveilings and celebrity appearances of Press Preview and we expect Industry Preview to continue that momentum," said Carl Galeana, senior co-chairman for the NAIAS 2008. "Industry Preview provides a unique occasion for industry insiders to network, attend informative special events on design and automotive trends, and get a sneak peek of the show before it opens to the public."

  Featured events during the NAIAS 2008 Industry Preview include:

  -- 15th Annual AutoWeek Design Forum -- Exploring the theme "Designed for
     Fun" the day-long forum celebrates design as the ultimate
     differentiating factor between products.  Attracting more than 700
     attendees, the forum also will feature the 2008 Editor's Choice Awards
     and attendees will tour the show floor.  The forum will be held in Cobo
     Center's Riverview Ballroom on Wednesday, Jan. 16 from 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.
     Jesse James of the Discovery Channel's Monster Garage and owner of West
     Coast Choppers will be the keynote speaker.

  -- Inforum's Annual Auto Show Breakfast -- Themed "Beyond Green:
     Unraveling Sustainability Mystique," the annual breakfast will focus on
     the various environmentally-friendly auto choices that are beginning to
     emerge in the market.  The breakfast will take place on Thursday,
     Jan. 17 at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center from 7:30 a.m. -
     9 a.m.

Industry Preview is today Jan. 16 from noon to 9 p.m. and tomorrow Jan. 17 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets for Industry Preview are $75 each and can be purchased at naias.com or by calling 248-283-5169.

NAIAS 2008 Official Dates

Industry Preview is held on Wednesday, Jan. 16 and Thursday, Jan. 17. The annual black-tie Charity Preview will be held Friday evening, Jan. 18. Public Days will be held Saturday, Jan. 19 through Sunday, Jan. 27.

  The North American International Auto Show
  Rod Alberts - Executive Director

Entering its 20th year as an international event, the North American International Auto Show is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world and is one of the largest media events in North America. The NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles, the Paris- based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world. The NAIAS Web site can be accessed at naias.com. Don't Miss It for the World!