Back to Los Angeles

Each year we look forward to the return of the LA Auto Show with great anticipation. This year we take a look at the show from a different perspective. What, pray tell, is that perspective? Assuredly, last year there was a lull that permeated the automotive industry. Uncertainty and anxiety lurked from every corner of the automotive world? Who would collapse? Who would be bought out? Who would remain standing? But, just as the White House keeps proclaiming that they are doing everything that they can to help spur the economy, that same specter of economic doom creeps about. In reality, it is the automakers and the consumer that will resurrect the automotive economy. We applaud the courageous character of the automobile industry.

The rumble beneath our feet isn't an earthquake nor a fiery, lava-filled volcano. That movement is the mother of invention-it is human ingenuity that promises to rise above the ashes. There are so many metaphors that befit what is occurring in the industry. The automakers are like Stallone's Rocky, NYC's 9/11 First Responders, alas they are like the Phoenix. What ever metaphor you use, believe this, the world's automotive giants are awake and ready to present their latest automotive accomplishments right here in our great Southern California climate. Was this a little over the top? We don't think so. Go to the show and you be the judge.

Show Highlights
This year's show will feature more than 900 vehicles from sports cars and sedans to crossovers and minivans.

Show Debuts
The Los Angeles Convention Center will host more than 30 World and North American debuts. There will be more than 20 luxury vehicles making their debut. Debuts include Rolls-Royce's all-new, $250,000 vehicle called the Ghost and the first supercar from Lexus, the $375,000 Lexus LFA. A few other notable luxury vehicles at the show include the convertible Audi R8 Spyder, Mercedes-Benz's SLS AMG featuring its classic gull-wing doors and Porsche's first four-door sedan, the Panamera.

Green Machines
The show also will feature more than 50 new "green" vehicles including hybrids, modern clean-diesel, electric, hydrogen fuel cell, natural gas and ethanol-powered vehicles. Hybrids still represent the largest volume of "green" vehicles including the much-anticipated Chevrolet Volt expected to be on sale in 2010 and the all-new Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid sedan. However, modern clean diesels like the Audi A3 TDI and Volkswagen Golf TDI are becoming increasingly popular.

Accessorize
Perhaps our favorite hot spot at the LA Auto Show is Kentia Hall. It is an excellent opportunity for consumers to see the newest automotive accessories and customizing trends. You can find everything from custom wheels, tires and performance products to the latest mobile audio and entertainment systems.

Ticket prices are $12 for adults and $2 off discount coupons, good for any day of the show, can be found at http://www.LAautoshow.com. Children 12 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult.

The LA Auto Show is open to the public Dec. 4-13.
Hours are: 

Weekdays: 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. 

Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. 

Sundays: 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

For article including pictures please visit http://www.elatinoweekly.com