Detroit Auto Show Canceled as TCF Center Chosen for Hospital in Coronavirus Fight
The 2020 North American International Auto Show in Detroit has been canceled because the Federal Emergency Management Administration chose the TCF Center to become a field hospital for COVID-19 cases for at least six months.
The show, one of Southeast Michigan’s signature events, will resume in June 2021, the organizers informed show sponsors in a memo Saturday.
”The health and welfare of the citizens of Detroit and Michigan is paramount. TCF Center is the ideal location for this important function at this critical and unprecedented time,” NAIAS executive director Rod Alberts said in a statement.
Auto show officials declined to comment on the memo, which the Free Press obtained.
The 2021 show will include all the events planned for this year, when the event had was to move from its longtime home in January to summer so it could offer outdoor events along the riverfront including test drives, demonstrations of self-driving cars and other new technologies and Motor Bella, a pre-show street festival of Italian and English cars in the heart of downtown.
2021 North American International Auto Show dates and events
- Motor Bella – Friday, June 11 to Monday, June 14: A street fair of English and Italian cars and food.
- The Gallery – Monday, June 14: An invitation-only show of the latest exotic and luxury vehicles.
- Press Preview – Tuesday, June 15 to Wednesday, June 16: Automakers from around the world reveal new vehicles and technologies.
- AutoMobili-D Powered by PlanetM – Tuesday, June 15 to Thursday, June 17: Innovators showcase new ideas to automakers and suppliers.
- Industry Preview – Wednesday, June 16 to Thursday, June 17: Engineers and designers study new vehicles for competitive information.
- Charity Preview – Friday, June 18: Massive event raises millions for local charities.
- Public Show – Saturday, June 19 to Saturday, June 26