Today marks the opening of the 2007 Chicago Auto Show, Feb. 9-18, at the expansive McCormick Place. An exciting event for everyone, from the automotive enthusiast to the curiosity seeker, there is plenty to see and do at this year’s show.
It always seems to take me more than one day to see everything. Afterall, the show encompasses more than 1 million square-feet and there’s hundreds of vehicles to enjoy. Everyone seems to have a couple favorite brands they like to visit, but the following is my list of what I think are the "must-see" exhibits at this year’s show.
Chrysler Test Track
Take a ride at the Chrysler Group’s test track. Even if you have to wait a little while in line, it’s well worth it. You should know that the lines at the world’s largest indoor auto show test track are usually shorter when the show first opens. Those lines only get longer as the day goes on and the crowds build.
First featured at the 2005 Chicago Auto Show, the exhibit provides a Jeep Trail Rated course as well as a Dodge Truck course and an on-road course for cars.
For 2007, the Chrysler Group has expanded the exhibit to include an ice-patch section to demonstrate traction and stability control.
Meet a racing legend at Bridgestone Tires
How would you like to meet racing legend Mario Andretti and his grandson, Marco Andretti? Marco represents the future of the Indy Racing League. Both Mario and Marco will be in the Bridgestone exhibit Friday, Feb. 9; Saturday, Feb. 10; and Sunday, Feb. 11.
Safely There
Continental Automotive Systems’ display will include something they refer to as the Safely There exhibit. This exhibit contains a Disney-like simulator that enables groups of people to have realistic driving experiences with various new crash prevention features.
“Safely There” also has a “reality theater” and interactive exhibits where visitors can learn about such topics as staying in their lane, safely changing lanes and detecting blind spots.
There’s so much valuable information here that I’d have to recommend this display be visited by both experienced and inexperienced drivers.
Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers Future Fuels
Would you like to learn more about alternative fuels or hybrids? How about the newest advances in hydrogen? The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers has a display regarding these future fuels and their use in the industry.
This highly educational display will provide a glimpse into the possible fuels our cars will be powered by in the future.
The Alliance is a trade association of nine car and light truck manufacturers including BMW, DaimlerChrysler, Ford, General Motors, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Porsche, Toyota and Volkswagen.
