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Customer LoginsLet's kick off auto show season!
I attended the 43rd edition of the Miami International Auto Show at the Miami Beach Convention Center. This is truly regarded as the official kick off for auto show season. Miami's show is sponsored by the South Florida Automotive Dealers Association, which boasts over 175 dealers.
My experience began with a media launch party on November 7th at the well-appointed Raleigh hotel on Collins Avenue. This event boasted many local dealers, product specialists, show event planners, members of the Miami Herald and others involved in Southern Florida's automotive industry. There was a definite buzz in the air; hopes that this show would fuel the passion of both consumers and enthusiasts.
The depth and breadth of this event might surprise you. More than 40 manufacturers are on display this year. Also, social media interaction is highly favored. Attendees are encouraged to tag tweets and instagram photos with #ilikethatcar so they will be displayed on giant screens. In addition, there are daily broadcasts on ways to interact and win prizes.
Does it truly make sense to kick off the auto shows with Miami? Yes, if you look at the table below.
US State | September 2013
| September 2013
|
---|---|---|
California | 1,289,292 | 11.0% |
Texas | 1,113,168 | 9.5% |
Florida | 808,220 | 6.9% |
New York | 717,602 | 6.1% |
Oklahoma | 552,209 | 4.7% |
Pennsylvania | 482,373 | 4.1% |
Illinois | 469,444 | 4.0% |
Ohio | 441,811 | 3.8% |
New Jersey | 417,913 | 3.5% |
Source: IHS Automotive (Polk Registration Data, CYTD)
Not many realize that Florida accounts for having the third highest volume of new vehicle registrations in the U.S. In the Miami area, if it is fast, shiny, topless or niche luxury, it is visible on the road.
One needs only to look at the chosen featured introductions. This year, the official show car is the new 2014 Corvette Stingray. In addition, Maserati launched its new entry level sedan, the Ghibli. Andrea Soriani, the head of marketing for Maserati US, was there to personally oversee the first day of introductions. Incidentally the Ghibli boasted the people's choice award for best new car based upon daily interaction with #ilikethatcar.
The show officials, Mario Murgado, Richard Baker and Cliff Ray, ensured this would be an experience offering something for everyone. There were plenty of spots to sit and rest as you walked around with food stands to keep your gas tank full. For the nostalgic, tucked between Concourse C and D is Havana Classics with white wall tires on display.
The Lexus Lounge boasts authentic Latina singers that were there to entertain families with children. For the black AmEx cardholders who like fast and exotic, this show encourages you to visit the Million Dollar Alley. Contained within its roped off displays are the Ferraris, Rolls-Royces, Teslas, Lamborghinis and Aston Martins. Surely on the list and not to be missed is the "Topless in Miami" display for those that want to be seen. Lastly, for those that are into adventure, you can participate in Camp Jeep which never fails to entertain.
Of course, who can beat the fantastic weather and culture of Miami, which only makes you desire to get in the car of your choice and cruise down Ocean Drive. If what you've read here sounds enticing, the Miami Auto Show runs from November 8th - 17th so there is still time to enjoy!
Theresa Gorman, Vice President, Sales & Client Services, IHS Automotive
Posted 19 November 2013