Photo caption: NAIAS Chairman Doug Fox during the opening, "This is Detroit. This is Motown. This is a display of automotive enthusiasm that is hard to match."

The North American International Auto Show's new showcase this year, Electric Avenue, will spotlight electric vehicles and technology of both traditional automakers and innovative entrepreneurs. The exhibit area will feature nearly 20 vehicles, as well as symposiums and special events on the adjacent NAIAS stage.

Exhibit sponsor Dow Chemical Company will showcase the importance of technological solutions, such as Dow's lightweighting and advanced battery technology, and its role as a key enabler to changing the game on energy consumption and climate change.

"Electric Avenue is going to be a unique feature of the 2010 NAIAS that will enable us to educate a diverse audience about the long-term viability of the auto industry using a subject that is top of mind globally these days," said NAIAS Chairman Doug Fox. "Each year our show strives to provide an innovative approach to providing excitement. As one of the primary stops on the global show circuit, we are able to draw key media and help exhibitors tell the short- and long-term strategies to a passionate audience of consumers and industry leaders."

These new additions to the North American International Auto Show showcase the technology and brain power in our region and will be a key driver in changing the conversation about the image of our region.