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The 2011 New York International Auto Show parks April 22 - May 1, 2011 at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City. The premiere launch in 1900 makes this event America’s first auto show, which also attracts the biggest attendance.
The Show is presenting “some of the hottest cars and trucks ever seen all under one roof,” with “more sneak peeks, more brand new '11 & '12 production models and more concept vehicles than ever before.”
This year the show has new hours: Monday through Saturday the show is open until 10pm, with Sundays now going to 7pm.
And there is a lot going on, even for those who don’t fancy themselves motor mavens -- such as having their picture taken with characters from the new Disney movie Cars 2, so they can look like they do.
Other appearances include:
But the real stars are the cars, and here are some of the best:
Chevrolet Volt – Meet Motor Trend’s 2011 North American Car of the Year, up close. This is also the car that Green Car Journal just named its 2011 Green Car of the Year, the first electric car to ever win the award. The Volt travels up to 35 miles gas- and emissions-free on one charge before a gasoline-powered generator kicks in for an extended range up to 375 miles. First delivered in December, the Volt can be ordered at participating dealers in California, Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Texas and Washington D.C.
Nissan Leaf – As the world awaits the first distribution of this 100% electric, zero emissions car, attendees get to check out this highly touted alternative vehicle. The Leaf is already so sought-after that the first model was reserved by 20,000 people -- far more than Nissan ever expected.
In addition to Chevrolet and Nissan, automakers BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Ford, GMC, Honda, Lexus, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz and Toyota are showcasing their alternative fuel cars as well.
Bugatti Veyron – At $1,700,000 the Bugatti Veyron is by far the most expensive street legal car available on the market today. The 2010 Super Sport version reaches a top speed of 267 mph.
Mercedes-Benz Concept A-Class – Mercedes’ latest compact features a new turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with a dual clutch transmission. A radar-based collision warning system comes with Brake Assist, which gives a visual and acoustic warning to an inattentive driver and prepares for a precise braking response.
Scion IQ – The all-new, premium micro-subcompact makes its New York debut at the Auto Show. Front-end length is decreased by an inverted front-mounted differential, electronic power steering system with compact steering column, and compact A/C unit, while rear overhang is reduced by a flat gas tank housed beneath the floor. With a size that makes it ideal for Manhattan’s often cramped streets, the Scion IQ is one of the best “good things” to come in a small package.
Chevrolet Silverado HD – Another winner to be seen is Motor Trend’s 2011 Truck of the Year, the Silverado HD. With its Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel and Allison® six-speed transmission, it beat out the Ford F-Series Super Duty and GMC Sierra Heavy Duty trucks.
Other attractions:
DUB Show Tour – The New York stop will have exclusive vehicles including a one-of-a-kind Porsche and Lamborghini, as well as some Kawasaki models such as the Vulcan Vaquero and ZX10.
World Traffic Safety Symposium – The Symposium is dedicated to bringing auto manufacturers, public and private organizations, and the media together to share information and discuss innovative ways to make vehicles and highways safer.
The LeMay Museum Exhibit of Classic Cars – America’s Car Museum (ACM) is bringing a tiny taste of its future to the Show, as it will be opening its auto museum in Washington state next year. In conjunction with Teeny Tiny Productions of Chicago, ACM has assembled “Le Petit Concours,” an exhibit of diminutive vehicles from around the country. More than 25 micro and mini cars are on display, including a 1967 Wankel Spider, a 1957 Goggomobil TS 400 Coupe and a 1932 Martin Aeroplane Factory Martinette. The oldest car of the group is a 1919 Heyat Helico.
Micro cars are defined as those with 500cc or smaller engines, and mini cars have engines in the 501-1000 cc range. Many of the micro and mini cars are privately owned and some of their owners will be at the booth to talk about their cars.
EV Pavilion – Indoor Ride-Along rides again so visitors can experience the feel of riding in non-emission vehicles.
Camp Jeep – The true off-road capabilities of the brand's vehicles are shown on this rough terrain circuit.
Automotive Career Fair – Free admission to students, who only pay $9 for admission to the Auto Show itself.
Charity Gala to Benefit East Side House Settlement – Proceeds from the Gala benefit East Side House’s college preparatory program for residents of the South Bronx. The program “has provided financial aid counseling or financial assistance to 354 students who were accepted to college over The past three years, [thanks to] The generosity of The Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association and The New York International Auto Show, as part of a proud tradition of dedicated community service.”
For Gala information visit www.galapreview.org.
For more Auto Show details, visit www.autoshowny.com.
Press Preview: Wednesday, April 20 and Thursday, April 21
Dealer Preview: Thursday, April 21, 4pm -10pm
Public Sneak Preview: Friday, April 22
Opening Day: Saturday, April 23
Public Days: Friday, April 22 to Sunday, May 1
New York International Auto Show
April 22 - May 1, 2011
Jacob Javits Convention Center
11th Ave between 34th & 40th Streets
New York City