This Valentine’s Day weekend is a perfect time to show your love for the green car revolution at the 2009 Motor Trend International Auto Show.
Let others fill up on candy and heart cookies while you digest all the “green” offerings the automakers have brought to town. With more than 400 new cars, trucks, minivans and SUVs on display, you’ll certainly find something that is your heart’s desire.
“I’m always about the new vehicles and especially wanted the chance to see the new Chevy Camaro,” said Michael Squire of Hebron, Ky., who skipped the Detroit show this year, where some automakers and dealers had minimum displays, in favor of regional auto shows.
What: 2009 Motor Trend International Auto Show
Where: Baltimore Convention Center, One W. Pratt S.
When: Noon to 10 p.m. today; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday
Details: $10 for those 13+, $6 seniors and military with ID, $4 ages 7-12, free children 6 and under; Family Day is Sunday when all kids ages 12 and under are admitted free; 410-649-7000; www.motortrendsautoshows.com
Expect automakers to turn out in full force at the Baltimore show with some of their hottest hybrids, new concept cars, and highly touted new offerings.
Among the hot green cars expected at the show is the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, which drew large crowds at auto shows in both Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.
David Finnegan, marketing manager for Hybrid Vehicles at Ford, demonstrated many of the car’s high-tech features including systems that allow drivers to tailor driving styles to optimize fuel economy. But don’t think the Fusion is all work. A premium audio system and other bells and whistles — not to mention steady handling and plenty of power — make this car a treat to drive.
“This vehicle delivers,” said Finnegan. “It has superior fuel economy (41 mpg city/36 mpg highway) that beats all other models.”
Plus, as shown during a recent test drive, it’s just plain fun.
But even if you’re not in the market for a new car, the auto show is a great place to browse. Auto show vets say it’s best to go early to get your browsing and questions in before the show becomes crowded.
“It always gets crowded, so if you go early you can spend more time getting questions answered,” said Kevin Buehler, owner of Patriot Automotive in Eldersburg. “That’s especially true of someone who wants to take something home; you don’t want to get there and find out they ran out of brochures.”
After all, dreams are still free.
