Confidence Overflows at Auto Show

Strong Sunday pushes show over 800,000 for successful finish

DETROIT -- Jan. 25, 2015: The 2015 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) finished strong today after a brilliant two week celebration of the world's love affair with the automobile.

Today's gate of 102,928 brings total ticketed attendance to 808,775, edging out last year's total of 803,451.

2015 NAIAS Chairman Scott LaRiche said closing day is always bittersweet.

"It's been an overwhelming experience to be associated with the world's greatest auto show for the last six years," said an inspired LaRiche. "It was a fantastic run and I'm so proud to be part of such a great team. It's definitely a bittersweet day."

The show is a reflection of the auto industry, and the auto industry is back, added LaRiche.

"For two weeks, we've seen the confidence and felt the commitment that auto manufacturers have placed in our show, and in our city," he said. "They unveiled unbelievable products in dramatic fashion; they built beautiful new, interactive displays; and dozens of amazing digital screens created a sensory extravaganza. And for the last eight days, during the public show, people have smiled from ear-to-ear from the moment they arrived. Now that's confidence."

NAIAS Executive Director Rod Alberts said the show continues to play a major role in automakers' global product launch strategies.

"We continue to work hard to maintain the confidence, trust and partnerships with the global automakers," said Alberts. "We support the promise of the original NAIAS organizing committee which, 26 years ago, said: 'you bring the cars; we'll bring the media.' I think it's safe to say, we kept our promise."

NAIAS Highlights

Press Preview:

5,025 journalists from 60 countries and 40 U.S. states

55 vehicle introductions: 49 worldwide; six North American

Seven concept cars

Industry Preview:

35,551 people attended from 2,001 companies and 25 countries

Charity Preview:

15,350 people helped raise $5.3 million for children's charities

More than $100 million raised since 1976 when Charity Preview was established by the Detroit Auto Dealers Association

Steve Miller Band performed on Cobo Center's Atrium stage

Studio 25:

2,500 people attended Detroit's biggest afterglow party in Cobo Center's Grand Riverview Ballroom

Total Ticketed Attendance:

808,775 (incl. Industry Preview, Charity Preview & Public Show)

Total Economic Impact of NAIAS 2015: $400 million (per economist David Sowerby)