Auto Industry Sees Renewed Optimism at Detroit Show

The North American International Auto Show drew thousands of people to Detroit's Cobo Center, with U.S. automakers showcasing their latest designs, power, and elegance in an effort to impress consumers and demonstrate the industry's recovery. Crowds flocked to the show to see the newest models from General Motors, Ford Motor Co., and Chrysler, as well as top competition from Europe and Asia. The show provided a glimpse into the latest vehicles, engine upgrades, and gadgets coming off the assembly line each year, amidst renewed optimism in the American auto industry.

Key Takeaways:

The annual auto show saw a significant increase in attendance, with organizers expecting higher numbers than last year's 714,000 visitors.
New car and truck sales reached 11.6 million in 2010, a 11% increase from 2009.
December sales rose to 1.14 million, an 11% leap from a year earlier.
General Motors' corner appeared to draw the biggest crowds, with dozens of people circling the company's sport utility vehicles and sportier models.
The Chevy Volt, an electric car with a base sticker price of $40,280 US, was among the most popular new models on display.
GM predicts it will sell 10,000 Chevys in 2011 and between 35,000 and 45,000 in 2012.
Visitors praised the variety and quality of the new vehicles on display, with many expressing enthusiasm for the industry's recovery.
Attendees also appreciated the show's additions, including top-of-the-line luxury vehicles and high-end cars like Ferrari and Maserati.

Statistics:

11.6 million: new car and truck sales in 2010.
11%: increase in new car and truck sales from 2009 to 2010.
1.14 million: December sales in 2010, representing an 11% leap from a year earlier.
10,000: predicted sales of Chevy Volts in 2011.
35,000-45,000: predicted sales of Chevy Volts in 2012.
$40,280 US: base sticker price of the Chevy Volt.

Sources:

"Sharp designs with pizzazz, power and elegance help pull in crowds during public opening of North American International Auto Show," by Corey Williams and Sam VarnHagen, The Associated Press (no date).