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Editorial: The power of the NAIAS!

Posted at 7:33 PM, Jan 14, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-15 10:52:03-05

The U.S. auto industry is riding high!  And the best place to see proof of that is here in downtown Detroit where revitalization has become the name of the game.  If it’s January, it’s time to kickoff the year with the North American International Auto Show.  NAIAS is the premier display of cars, trucks and TECHNOLOGY in America and one of the best in the world! 

Last year, automotive sales surpassed more than 17 million vehicles.  Many analysts believe that upward trend will continue in 2016.  But that depends largely on quality products, innovation, a healthy economy and smart business decisions.    Trust between manufacturers, suppliers and consumers will also be critical.

But perhaps the biggest challenge facing today’s auto industry is finding ways to market their brands to a new generation of consumers.  These are young men and women who thirst mobile technology, embrace workability, and look forward to autonomous vehicles.  No wonder partnerships between Google and Apple are being formed with zest and creativity.

Once again, this year’s show shines the spotlight on an industry that is a major driver of America’s GNP.  More than 5-thousand journalists from around the world watched the unveiling of more than 50 products.  The 2015 show generated $400 million for the Detroit region.  Organizers are expecting close to 1 million people to visit this year’s show.

We at WXYZ are proud to be the official broadcast partner for the Charity Preview.  That star-studded event raises more than $5 million for needy local charities.   We also invite you to participate in the Channel 7 Family Day on January 22nd. 

We love being called “The Motor City!”  And we encourage you to come downtown and visit the show.   Strong support for the industry that keeps the world on wheels, begins right here at home!

I’m Mike Murri, Vice President & General Manager
Broadcast: January 14 - 17, 2016