The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) is launching a spin-off exhibition focused on showcasing and keeping track of the latest autonomous vehicle developments.
AutoMobili-D will be held for the first time on January 8 in a dedicated 120,000 sq. ft space complete with a dedicated indoor test track for demonstrating and letting visitors gain first-hand experience of the latest self-driving technology systems.
"[It] will provide an international look at the ever-changing world of consumer mobility and the ecosystem of companies and innovations that are driving this exciting transformation," said Sam Slaughter, 2017 NAIAS chairman. "AutoMobili-D will provide the ideal platform for business to business networking and thought-provoking demonstrations."
In recent years the necessity for traditional motor shows has been questioned, not least by car companies themselves. Thanks to everything from social networks to Virtual Reality, they have a host of immersive, digital ways of interacting directly with potential owners and fans.
However, the ongoing development of connected and self-driving car technologies could change all of that. Things are moving so quickly that a curated show focused on e-mobility and the wider issue of future urban mobility services, as well as the move towards cars as autonomous objects, is very much in need.
Although Detroit's grip as an auto show destination is slipping, as the home to the US carmaking industry, it has been very quick to establish itself as a hub for the development and testing of next generation automotive technologies.
"The way the world views mobility is being reshaped and redefined right here in Michigan," said NAIAS executive director Rod Alberts. "There's unparalleled research, design, testing and infrastructure development happening right in our backyard."
Over 100 companies, from established car makers to startups, will attend the inaugural show, which will run January 8-12 at the Cobo Center Atrium in Detroit, Michigan.
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