Just as with any industry, the automobile industry is constantly designing new products and using state-of-the-art technologies to enhance existing products. Each year, car enthusiasts and dealers can attend a wide variety of auto shows that feature the new offerings and even a glimpse into the future of auto manufacturing.

While there are literally hundreds of auto shows each year―every major U.S. city has at least one―there are a few shows that you just can't miss:

    * The North American International Auto Show is held annually in Detroit in January, which is simply the center of American car manufacturing. Formerly known as the Detroit Auto Show, it began in 1907 with 33 vehicles. Today, it offers more than 1 million square feet of showroom space and thousands of visitors from around the globe. It's considered one of the premier auto shows in the world, ranked with world-class Geneva, Paris, Tokyo, and Frankfurt. The Web site offers upcoming show details, including tickets, media resources, and facts about the show's history.

    * The New York International Automobile Show is another top-notch venue for car lovers to scope out the latest products and concept cars from makers around the world. The site offers ticket information, contests, and even a download section with screensavers, audio, and video spots.

    * Motor Trend Auto Shows are held throughout the country in places as diverse as Honolulu and Baltimore. A leading publication in auto standard reviews, Motor Trend offers quality show information and even a lookup page for the latest concept cars. Check out details for the next show coming to your area.

While we can't list all the shows around the country in this one article, you can stay abreast of the can't-miss shows by checking out Car Show News, a mega-site dedicated to practically every car show you can think of. It offers a fantastic database of all the biggies, including some lesser-known and regional shows. Search for shows and events by state or subject (including collector auctions, imported cars, and trucks and tractors. Also find information on international shows and check out the database of car-related museums in the U.S. and abroad.

Jody DeVere
President and CEO
http://www.askpatty.com
http://www.carblabber.com