First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America and has been held more times than any other auto exposition on the continent. 2007 marks the 99th edition of the show.
The Chicago Auto Show utilizes 1.2 million sq. ft. (111,200 sq. M.) of the McCormick Place South complex. McCormick Place offers a total of 2.2 million sq. ft. (204,600 sq. M.) with an additional 255,000 sq. ft. (23,715 sq. M.) of meeting room availability.
The 99th edition of the show will open its doors daily from 10 a.m.-10 p.m., excepting closing day, when the curtain will fall at 8 p.m.
The Chicago Auto Show, recognized as an global event by the International Automobile Manufacturers Organization (OICA), has been staged more times than any other auto show. It has long been viewed by manufacturers as the nation's most important consumer exposition due to the massive crowds, magnificent displays, and ease of availability in a world-class city.
"More than 10 percent of those attending the auto show travel more than 100 miles to get here," commented Bob Loquercio, chairman of the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), which has produced the event since 1935. "I'm not surprised. Chicago's worldwide status as a destination city with incredible hotels, restaurants, shopping and museums make it a natural for those wishing to escape for a weekend. Having the nation's most magnificent auto show open spanning two weekends fits right in to their plans."
"The Chicago Auto Show visitor gets an advantage due to the timing of the show," said Jerry Cizek, the show's general manager. "Our customers get to view everything the industry has put on the plate over the past few months plus more than 20 world and North American introductions of new vehicles unveiled here in the Windy City. They're total winners."
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Chicago Auto Show
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"The show has traditionally been a significant driving force in the spring selling season for dealers," continued D'Arcy. "But it has residual effects long beyond the springtime. Six months after it closes, we'll often hear customers mention the auto show as the reason they've come to see a new vehicle."