International auto show in Detroit will move — to a warmer time of year

The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) held annually in Detroit, Michigan, is moving — not to another city but another month: June.

The show has been held in the dead of winter in Michigan where temperatures can reach 3 degrees below zero. But starting in 2020, the show will be held in warmer weather.

“Our show is undergoing its most significant transformation in the last three decades,” said Rod Alberts, NAIAS executive director. “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 world-famous show is run by the Detroit Auto Dealers Association and its executive board. Next year, the show will begin the week of June 8.

Thousands of automotive executives, engineers, developers, designers and analysts attend the show each year. This year, 750 cars were showcased inside the Cabo Center in downtown Detroit.

NAIAS said that last year the show had 100,605 attendees, bringing the total ticketed attendance for 2018 to 809,161. Similar numbers are expected this year when the show opens to the public from Jan 19-27.

“The North American International Auto Show has provided GAC Motor with a tremendous platform – connecting us with key media and industry executives,” said Yu Jun, GAC Motor president. “As we look to enter the US and increase our market share, Detroit will continue to serve as a critical part of our global marketing strategy, and we look forward to the new, exciting opportunities June will offer.”