Tips for Car Fans as Chicago Auto Show Enters Closing Weekend

CHICAGO, Feb. 16, 2007 -- As the 99th Chicago Auto Show enters its closing weekend, organizers are offering tips for those coming to McCormick Place.

"The tough weather we experienced early in the week will cause an even higher demand than normal for those wishing to view the nation's biggest auto show," said Terry D'Arcy, 2007 Chicago Auto Show chairman. "The nice part is that with a show floor as large as ours, it will never get crowded and our patrons will still be able to get that 'up-close-and-personal' look at more than 1,000 vehicles."

At 1.3 million sq. ft., the Chicago show eclipses all others and is the most important to manufacturers wanting to connect with consumers.

"The show works on so many different levels," commented show co-chairman Bob Loquercio. "If a family is shopping for its new vehicle, they can do it in the warmth and comfort of McCormick Place, rather than having to troop from dealership to dealership to make comparisons. Likewise, for those just wishing to experience the dream concept cars to peek into the future; or just a couple looking for a fun date, the auto show fits the bill."

  Show management offers the following tips for those heading to the show:

   - There is tons of indoor and covered parking for the show, so don't let
     that snow scare you away. Underground parking is available on the east
     side of Lake Shore Drive and is accessed via 31st St; the King Drive
     Lot A is accessed via 22d St.; and the Millennium Park underground lot.
   - Free shuttles will operate from Millennium Park lots on Saturday and
     Sunday only through the end of the show. All other shuttles are
     operating on a continuing basis from Friday through the end of the
     show.
   - McCormick Place snow removal crews are set to work all night to make
     sure that the lots that surround the show will be clear.
   - Voting in the "Best of Show" competition continues with several tight
     races. People can vote their favorites of the show by visiting
     www.ChicagoAutoShow.com  Categories in the competition are: Best
     Concept; Best All New Production Vehicle; Best Chicago World
     Introduction; Best Exhibit; and the Car I'd Most Like to See in my
     Driveway.
   - Visit www.ChicagoAutoShow.com for details on how to take public
     transportation from anywhere in the city or suburbs.
   - The general number for the public to call for show information is
     630-424-6030
   - And always remember: The fudge never runs out!