Motor Bella, M1 Concourse, Pontiac, MI — September 22, 2021
Motor Bella, the 2021 version of the North American International Auto Show, kicked off yesterday with a media preview of the all-outdoor event at the M1 Concourse in Pontiac, Michigan. Open to the General Public on Thursday, the glitzy showgrounds hosted members of the automotive press on Day 1.
Governor Jennifer Grandholm welcomed attendees and announced a significant initiative for the advancement of electric vehicles in the State of Michigan. She proposed the Michigan Department of Transportation will begin work to develop a stretch of public roadway that will be the first to provide wireless charging for electric vehicles while being driven.
“Michigan was home to the first mile of paved road, and now we’re paving the way for the roads of tomorrow with innovative infrastructure that will support the economy and the environment, helping us achieve our goal of carbon neutrality by 2050,” Whitmer went on to say. “This project reinforces my commitment to accelerating the deployment of electric vehicle infrastructure in Michigan and will create new opportunities for businesses and high-tech jobs amidst the transition to electric vehicles.”
Ford Motor Company First on the Agenda
The Ford Motor Company from nearby Dearborn, Michigan held the first press conference of the day to reveal the newly reconfigured 2022 Ford Expedition.
The new 2022 Expedition, Ford’s flagship SUV, is for families seeking epic adventures and memory-making road trips. With an expanded lineup of models to choose from, new driver-assist and connected technologies, and a new Timberline series, that is the most off-road-capable in its class.
“Expedition is more than family transportation. It’s a full-size SUV that allows families to share adventures and make connections confidently and comfortably,” said Kumar Galhotra, president, Americas & International Markets Group. “We’ve refined almost every part of our new Expedition – from improved interiors to more connectivity enhancements to make the ownership experience as convenient as possible for the always-on lives of our customers.”
Ford also announced that a special edition Raptor will be added to the Bronco lineup in 2022.
Bronco Draws Attention
Ford is well-represented at Motor Bella. Adjacent to the concourse entrance the Blue Oval set up a ride and drive opportunity for attendees to experience several of their current models. The line for Bronco test drives was the most popular all day.
In the infield portion of M1’s racetrack, Ford owns the attention-grabbing space with a huge vehicle display, various participation points for interactive digital souvenirs, and the highlight of the auto show. The Bronco Corral is the must-see attraction on the grounds.
All the Bronco models are on display, including a vintage original. A road course that highlights everything about America’s favorite off-road vehicle that excites buyers provides test drive adventures on a continuous cycle through the event’s daily schedule.
While not the conventional auto show from years past, the outdoor version provides automotive enthusiasts more of a hands-on opportunity to experience real-life vehicles in action.
Motor Bella tickets are on sale now. Visit the online ticket office for complete details.
About Motor Bella
Motor Bella is the future of auto shows. It’s a journey, an experience, and a tour through the ever-evolving world of mobility. Here you’ll be able to cruise in an electric car on a mile-long track, take an exhilarating ride in a utility vehicle up rocky terrain, or feel the G’s of a sports car taking you from 0 to 60 in 3 seconds. And, yes, you can pick out your next new ride from over 350 cars, trucks, and utility vehicles, too.
In place of the North American International Auto Show for 2021, Motor Bella is presented by the Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA). Its mission is to support its membership through legislative and industry representation, educational programs and communications, and community relations activities.
