2010 NAIAS to Debut Electric Avenue

In recognition of the rapid development of electric vehicles, the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) announced it will debut the so called Electric Avenue, a 37,000 square foot feature on the show's main floor sponsored by Dow Chemical Company. The area will be used exclusively for the presentation of electric vehicles and related technology.

"Electric Avenue is going to be a unique feature of the 2010 NAIAS that will enable us to educate a diverse audience about the long-term viability of the auto industry using a subject that is top of mind globally these days," Doug Fox, NAIAS chairman said in a release.

"Each year our show strives to provide an innovative approach to providing excitement. As one of the primary stops on the global show circuit we are able to draw key media and help exhibitors tell the short- and long-term strategies to a passionate audience of consumers and industry leaders."

So far, NAIAS said some 20 vehicles will be on display on the Electric Avenue, with symposiums and special events to be held on the adjacent NAIAS stage.

To further promote EVs, NAIAS will also host, together with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) the EcoXperience, a feature which will allow visitors to feel the vehicles first hand on a 1/4- mile landscaped track in the lower level of Cobo Center.

"We are pleased to join NAIAS to showcase the significance of technology to the automotive industry," Heinz Haller, Dow Chemical Company vice president concluded.