By Ted Biederman
Highlights of the 2012 version of the Los Angeles Auto Show reflect once again the importance of being green. BEV’s, plug-in hybrids, plug-ins, hybrids, diesels, hydrogen fuel cells, and maybe a compressed air machine are all the topics of conversation at major international auto events, and Los Angeles is no exception; in fact the L.A. show has been and continues to be the single most important venue for alternative fuel vehicles among the major auto shows.
While green and alternative fuel technologies, such as hybrids and all-electric vehicles, will be featured in several world debuts at the show, there also will be an increasing number of high-mileage internal combustion vehicles, including clean diesel, on display.
It is clear that automakers have invested significantly to deliver vehicles consumers want, featuring an unprecedented number of technological advancements, improved performance and designs that are dramatically changing the modern driving experience, all while decreasing carbon emissions.
More than 40 world and North American auto premiers make their debut in this the car-crazy capital of the world.
Auto show organizers say the debut lineup this year also promises a compelling mix of the hottest trends and cutting-edge innovations driving today’s resurgent automotive industry, including world firsts from European automakers such as BMW, Fiat and Volkswagen. You will also see global unveilings of new designs from Asian brands, including models from Acura, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan and Toyota. And there is plenty to see from our home grown brands such as Chevrolet, Ford, Chrysler and their siblings.
Sharing the spotlight is a well-represented line-up of luxury and performance models underscoring the LA region’s status as the largest market for these segments in the country. Of the 40 debuts slated, at least a dozen will come from these two categories, including unveilings from the likes of Acura, Bentley, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover and Porsche.
There is a lot to see at the LA Auto Show and the world wants to know what we think. The world knows that the people of L.A. set the pattern for design, technology and change; and for this reason this car capital makes the other car capitals of the world sit up and take notice; after all we are the focus group that counts.
