A glimpse into the future
Autoshow to showcase latest automotive trends
As a car lover, one of the highlights of the year for me is visiting the Canadian International Autoshow (CIAS) in Toronto.
Presented by the Toronto Automobile Dealers Association (TADA), the CIAS is the largest consumer show of any kind in Canada in size and attendance and it takes place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (North and South buildings) between next Friday, Feb. 17, and a week from next Sunday, Feb. 26.
The 2012 Autoshow promises to be bigger and better than ever, with more than 125 exhibitors and approximately 1,000 cars and trucks on display, prize packages and special promotions.
This year’s theme is The Next Dimension, which reflects the profusion of cutting-edge designs and technologies that are influencing the automotive experience. Every facet of this industry is changing and the 2012 Autoshow gives visitors a glimpse of this exciting new world. New methods of power to the wheel, higher standards of fuel efficiency, on-board electronics, reconfigured interiors and improved safety features are among the game-changing trends that will be proudly on display.
The 2012 Autoshow has assembled an incredible lineup of attractions that will showcase the latest automotive trends, which will appeal to car enthusiasts of all stripes.
True auto aficionados will appreciate Auto Exotica (formerly Con- corso Exotica), a themed area in the North Building, featuring a collection of exotic automobiles from Lotus, Bentley, Aston Martin, Ferrari and Rolls-royce.
New this year is the Eco-drive, an exhibit that features clean, fuel-efficient vehicles and technologies that are on the market right now, including the all-new, all-electric Nissan LEAF.
Featured vehicles will be equipped with diesel, hybrid, hybrid plug-in and battery-electric drive trains, as well as advanced conventional technologies.
A highlight of each CIAS is the unveiling of new models, so look for Canadian premiers from Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Mercedes-benz, Toyota, Honda/acura, Mazda, Nissan/infiniti and Volkswagen.
Future trends are always a popular topic, as they provide a snapshot into the future of automobile design, fuel-efficient technologies, new architectural platforms, and mobility challenges. The Acura ILX, BMW’S Vision Connecteddrive, Cadillac’s Urban Luxury, Ford Fiesta’s ST, Subaru’s XV and Volkswagen’s Bulli are some of the concept vehicles that will be on display.
The TADA will highlight its involvement in the community and its many charitable endeavours, including the Canadian Safe School Networks, the Trillium Gift of Life Network, and our association’s Gift of Life Wing at the new Ronald Mcdonald House Toronto. For visitors with young children, the Children’s Playcare Centre is available, courtesy of Volkswagen (600 Level in the South Metro Toronto Convention Centre). A free shuttle service offers continuous service throughout the 10day event, transporting visitors between the two venues. MV-1 Canada will provide Wheelchair Accessible shuttle services as well. Buy tickets at the Autoshow website (E-ticket Fastlane) and save 10% and avoid the lineups. Family admission passes, multi-day passes and group rates are available (discount coupons are available at your local new car dealership). A special Seniors’ Day will be launched this year on Friday Feb. 17 — Seniors 65 and older can attend for only $10, a 50 per cent savings. Ample public parking is available nearby, and public transit is quick, convenient and accessible from Union Station. The 2012 Autoshow is a great place to see what’s new in the automotive world and to spend time with family and friends. For more information, visit www.autoshow.ca, and social networking sites, such as Facebook, Twitter and Youtube. This column represents the view of TADA. Email president@tada.ca or visit tada.ca. Sandy Liguori, president of the Toronto Automobile Dealers Association, is a new car dealer in the GTA.