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North American International Auto Show Announces Final Weekend Entertainment Lineup

DETROIT, Jan. 14, 2004 -- As the closing weekend of the 2004 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) approaches, auto show enthusiasts and their families planning on catching the last of the fun can experience a variety of exciting activities, cool cars and entertainment.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20040114/NAIASLOGO )

Inside Cobo Center's exhibit space, featuring more than 50 exhibits and more than 700 production and concept vehicles, the NAIAS has something for everyone to enjoy.

* Mini Cooper features interactive activities that demonstrate the agility, safety and customization of their vehicles. Activities will include a pinball machine, racing simulation game and a photo postcard of participants inside their custom-made Mini Cooper, also displayed on the big screen.

* An expanded display area in Michigan Hall features a specialty vehicle exhibit including Austin Powers star ("Mini-Me") Verne Troyer's 2004 Chrysler Crossfire, NBA Star Shaquille O'Neal's 2003 Cadillac Escalade and OutKast Hip Hop artist Big Boi's 2004 HUMMER H2. Other vehicles on display include the Honda SUT concept vehicle, Subaru B9SC and R1e concepts, VW's Concept T four- wheel sports coupe, Hyundai's HCD8 sports tourer and ASC's SOCAL edition of the Chevy SSR.

* Volkswagen is giving out collectible plastic models of the Beetle convertible at their booth in Michigan Hall. Other activities include a laser light game and an interactive Touareg game with a chance to win a VW lanyard.

* The GM Experience includes a 3-D movie screen featuring GM vehicles, a Proving Ground Theater and a Dynamometer Test Lab.

* Dodge takes NASCAR enthusiasts for a ride around the track in their 12 to 15 person simulator. Guests also have the opportunity to get their picture taken on the Dodge Tomahawk Motorcycle Concept.

* Winning poster designs from the NAIAS annual poster contest, created by high school students around Michigan, are featured in Michigan Hall at the Automotive Youth Educational System display.

* Jeep(R) is giving away a free computer game and an "insta-grow" sponge of the new Jeep(R) Wrangler. Guests can also try out the computer game at the display.

* Car enthusiasts and video game fans can race through photorealistic cities while playing DaimlerChrysler's Xbox video game, Project Gotham Racing2.

* Michelin hosts the first concept car designed and built in China at NAIAS displayed in Michigan Hall.

* DaimlerChrysler features a National Training Center UAW slot car event in Michigan Hall.

* Scion is giving away hats, key chains and tennis balls at their display in Michigan Hall.

* Numerous radio stations are hosting live broadcasts along with a series of giveaways.

The Cobo Arena Food Court, located off the main concourse near Wayne Hall, will feature live performances and an array of tasty menu items. Auto spectators can indulge their taste buds with Philly cheese steak sandwiches, Chicago-style hot dogs, quesadillas, Caesar salads, submarine sandwiches, Little Caesars(R) Pizza, cotton candy, popcorn and premium ice cream. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages also can be purchased.

The following is a schedule of entertainment events inside Cobo Arena:

* Greektown Casino presents the best in local entertainment in the Food Court daily during Public Days. Live music will include classic rock, jazz, Motown Review, pop, Top 40 and a Caribbean Steel Drum band. Guests have the opportunity to show off their singing talents to win a free tote bag.

* Fitness USA is featuring a spin-to-win wheel with an opportunity for guests to win a 20-day membership, a vacation to Florida or the Caribbean and other prizes.

* Pocono Marketing International is selling exotic, classic and antique die-cast cars ranging from $6.00 to $60.00.

* Visitors Village booth, sponsored by Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau, is distributing coupons for area venues and informational material about attractions in Metro Detroit. Guests have a chance to win a go-cart and box-seat tickets to the Tiger's game July 15th.

* The U.S. Army is back with its popular rock climbing wall that is free to the public.

Public Days for the NAIAS run through Monday, Jan. 19. Show hours are 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. through Sunday, Jan. 18 and 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 19 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day). Admittance ends one hour prior to show closing.

Tickets are $12 for adults (Canadian $16) and $6 for senior citizens 65 and older (Canadian $8). Children 12 years and under are free and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

In addition to the on-site ticket window at Cobo, E-Tickets are also available by logging on to www.naias.com . E-Ticket orders will provide a voucher to be redeemed for show tickets at the E-Ticket window at Cobo. Each order must be picked up in its entirety. Tickets are also available at Ticketmaster outlets. For Ticketmaster locations, log onto www.ticketmaster.com or call (248) 645-6666.

About the North American International Auto Show

In January 2003, Detroit concluded its 87th Auto Show, representing the 15th consecutive year as the expanded North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Now in its 16th year as an international event, the North American International Auto Show is considered among the most prestigious auto shows in the world and is one of the largest media events in North America. The NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn the distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles, the Paris- based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world. The NAIAS Web site can be accessed at www.naias.com .