The Los Angeles auto show is finally emerging out of the long shadow of Detroit's North American International Auto Show, to the unbridled joy of hundreds of war weary automotive journalists around the globe.
In essence, this is the second L.A. show this year, the first being in January, right before the Detroit show where it used to languish. It's arguably the biggest in the events's long history dating back to 1907. It's also the first year the show has earned an international designation, giving show organizers the extra clout to attract more world unveilings when the show lands in its permanent slot next year in early November.
This year's show definitely has a green sheen to it, which is certainly appropriate for a city where you can literally see a Toyota Prius every 50 feet or so. General Motors and Ford are both locked and loaded with double barrels of hybrid and hydrogen offerings, while BMW is bringing its Hydrogen 7 to the party.
Call them crossovers, SUVs, people movers, four-wheeled boxes, whatever, they keep on coming, and L.A. will have plenty on the show floor. Buick's long-awaited Enclave, the new Saturn Vue and Ford's next-gen Escape are all making their bows.
Concepts are also always a part of the auto show experience. Ford's hot Mustang by Giugiaro and the Mazda Nagare are among a of handful future-think vehicles that will be on hand.
Be sure to check back early and often during the show press days, Nov. 29-30, for all the latest unveilings and more direct from the L.A. show floor.