Northeast International Auto Show
The 2010 Northeast International Auto Show has begun at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence, RI. It runs through Sunday, January 24, sponsored by Motor Trend Auto Shows.
This year’s show in Providence features a strong focus on “Green” technology from each of the auto makers. Included in the show are hybrids, plug-in hybrids, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and electric vehicles. It’s a great community auto show for people unable to attend the larger shows in Detroit, LA or New York.
Scheduled events this weekend include Kids Day on Sunday, with appearances by Spiderman, the Hulk and Miss Teen Rhode Island World 2009 Amberly Joy Messier. Exhibits include a collection of vintage cars from British Motorcars of New England and an exotic car display featuring Rolls Royce and Lamborghini vehicles.
On Saturday at 10 a.m. Scott Settlemire, Manager of Chevrolet and Cadillac Shows and Exhibits will speak with Camaro enthusiasts in a special presentation.
This show is relatively small and competes with other Motor Trend shows running this weekend around the country. Manufacturers are not using it as a platform to launch new products, like larger shows in Detroit, New York or LA. Instead, it’s more an opportunity to comare some of the available models from the various manufacturers.
Toyota is there with several cars, trucks and SUVs. This model year includes three vehicles that are seeing major “generation” changes this year- the Sienna, the 4Runner and the Prius. Each of these are represented at the show, perhaps the highlight for Toyota. Scion has three vehicles in its display area and Lexus is not represented at all.
All in all, it is a fun family experience- especially if you’re shopping for a new car in the area. Its small size make it easy to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed. Don’t expect to see any concept cars that have never been seen before. The manufacturers are saving the big stories for the bigger shows.
