Michigan International Auto Show opens Thursday

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The 26th Michigan International Auto Show is cruising into downtown Grand Rapids Thursday.

Whether you’re searching for a new car now or if that’s a few years down the line, organizers say this event is the place to be.

“All of us will have a new vehicle to us at one date or another, and by seeing what’s out in the market today you might be able to make your decision,” said Dawn Baker, show manager.

In total, 25 different manufacturers have displays on the exhibit floor. You can find some of the latest vehicles that automakers have to offer, ranging from Ford, Chrysler and General Motors to Toyota and Subaru.

The auto show is also about being interactive — those who come out can sit in vehicles and check under the hood. There are also special features and displays available that showcase custom and antique cars.

Baker said it’s not a shopping show but you can talk to a product specialist or dealer rep.

“Understand a little bit more about the innovation and technology, whether that’s hybrid, EV, gasoline engine. You’re going to understand more about those vehicles. And this gives you that opportunity to talk to educate, to be informed,” she said.

In the Michigan Auto Salon room, exotic cars are the star. The new exhibit is run by West Michigan company Label Motorsports and inspired by the Tokyo Auto Salon and events in Europe. It features cars like Bentleys and Lamborghinis and showcases art, music and fashion in one space. Organizers say it’s about giving people a destination point and bringing them close with high end vehicles.

“I think it’s really important to give people acclimated and up close with these cars,” said Andy Siradakis, owner of Label Motorsports.

The show opens to the public Thursday at 11 a.m.

INDUSTRY TRENDS

This year’s event comes at a time when those within the auto industry are optimistic for a very good year. Over the last four years, Mike Wall, an auto analyst with S&P Global Mobility, said the auto industry has been through a lot due to factors like COVID-19. But as 2024 progresses, he’s encouraged about where the industry is headed.

“I’m looking for still some pretty decent sales, better this year than last year. Production that holds up quite well, this year versus last year. I think all in all, although we have some headwinds like auto affordability, still high interest rates, it’s looking like it’s going to be a really good year,” said Wall.

Another positive is that challenges like supply chain struggles have improved drastically.

“We’re seeing much better performance of semiconductors and availability of semiconductors. There’s some challenges out there. People may have heard about the Red Sea thread and how some of the logistics are impacted. That seems to be more focused on Europe,” said Wall.

As some struggles ease, Wall says we’re likely to see an unprecedented level of new vehicle launches and activity over the next four years.

“There a number of battery electric vehicles planned to be launched this year, in addition to traditional internal combustion vehicles. So there will be a vehicle for every person, every purpose,” Wall said.

So how soon could you pull a new vehicle off the lot? Wall expects cars to be more readily available in 2024 but that depends on which type buyers are looking for.

“When vehicles are launched, they tend to be the upper trim, high-priced vehicles to start.” Wall said. “For those mainstream vehicles maybe entry level trim, sort of mid-level trim, it’s going to take a little long.”

Wall says pricing will be very important moving forward and says some relief may happen if interest rates are reduced around March.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.