The Auto Writer

Built in China, sold by CODA Automotive, & on display in DC.

When it comes to auto shows in North America, the Los Angeles, Detroit, Chicago, and New York events have top name recognition. That is because each of these exhibits is well funded, focused, and the place where automakers are likely to introduce new models and concept cars to the public. If you have something new, exciting, and fresh to offer, then you will draw the crowds.

Change Happens Here

But there are other shows out there that are also quite good including Toronto, Atlanta, Dallas, and Washington, DC. Not every car enthusiast is willing to travel to the four biggest draws each year which makes some of the larger “secondary” shows of primary appeal. One of these events, the Washington Auto Show, kicks off today when Ford CEO Alan Mulally offers his keynote address for the Public Policy/Media Preview Day at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

This year’s show marks the 68th running of what is officially called The Washington Auto Show, an event which promotes operates under the following tag line: change happens here.

In some ways, the DC event is the east coast counterpart to the Los Angeles Auto Show, offering its share of environmentally friendly vehicles and technologies, thus its green niche. That is because the show operates in the shadow of Congress and the White House, with both the legislative and executive branches of the federal government deeply committed to tackling environmental issues such as dependency on foreign oil, smog, and climate change.

Advanced Technology SuperHighway

The centerpiece of this year’s show is a 65,000 square foot “Advanced Technology SuperHighway” display. This exhibit is sectioned by advancements in electric, diesel, natural gas, advanced petroleum, biofuels, ethanol, hydrogen and safety technologies in a bid to promote what the show calls “progressive innovations in automotive technology.”

The display operates in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as well as the Department of Energy and Department of Transportation. The event is touted as an opportunity for administrative and legislative officials to meet with auto industry leaders to advance green car policy and to let the public know what these advancements mean to them particularly as new models hit the market over the coming months and years.

Stuff For Kids

In addition to the tech display, there are a number of fun events scheduled including the AutoTrader.com game show which allows participants to answer automotive related questions as well as enter a separate sweepstakes offering $25,000 toward the purchase of an Auto Trader vehicle. Famous folks including Washington Capitals hockey players, the Washington Wizards cheerleaders, as well as a magician and nine foot tall robot will help keep the kids entertained while you check out the displays.

For more information about the Washington Auto Show, please visit their website.