The Detroit Auto Show is set to revert to its traditional January schedule after occupying late September dates in recent years, as confirmed by organizers at the Detroit Auto Dealers Association on Thursday.
The upcoming North American International Auto Show is scheduled to occur from Friday, January 10, through Monday, January 20, 2025, at Huntington Place in downtown Detroit. The charity preview gala is slated for Friday, January 10, followed by public days from January 11 to January 20, concluding on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Media, industry, and technology days are anticipated to align with the established pattern, likely on January 8 and 9.
Rod Alberts, the executive director of the Detroit Auto Show and the Detroit Auto Dealers Association, stated, “The Detroit Auto Show is pleased to announce the iconic show will return to its roots with a January 2025 debut.” He emphasized the goal of creating a compelling auto show to showcase both the city and the industry, with the January date considered the most suitable after consultations with various partners. Alberts highlighted the importance of adapting to the evolving automotive landscape and expressed the intent to keep people excited about cars. its traditional January schedule
The Detroit News was first to report that the auto show would be moved to January 2025. The last North American International Auto Show in January was held in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic. Organizers had proposed moving the show to the summer to showcase Detroit during its warmer months, allow for outdoor activities and provide a more festival-like approach, as auto shows, in general, faced challenges.
The internet has made it easier for customers to research products. Automakers increasingly have opted for experiential events and for revealing vehicles through their own platforms or in commercials during televised sporting events over competing for the spotlight at auto shows with expensive stages.