Takeaways from the 2019 North American International Auto Show

The 2019 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), also known as the Detroit Auto Show, is in the books, marking the final time the event will take place in the winter.

The 2020 event will take place in the summer, allowing the event to make its way outdoors for the first time in its 31 years. Event organizers hope the format change will result in renewed interest in the show, as many automakers declined to attend this year’s event to unveil their new vehicles and concept cars.

However, the 2019 show was not without its moments. Most of these moments affirm the direction in which many experts believe the industry is headed. Here are some of the biggest takeaways from the 2019 Detroit Auto Show.

Bigger is Better? – With many automakers discontinuing production of smaller vehicles in favor of SUVs and crossovers, it isn’t surprising to see the amount of larger passenger vehicles that were officially introduced. Ram introduced two new pickups, the 2500 and 3500, which are larger versions of its popular 1500. Kia introduced its eight-passenger Telluride model, while Cadillac unveiled the XT6 and ford introduced a rebooted version of the Explorer.

Electric and Hybrid Cars – As many automakers are getting back into creating larger vehicles, electric and hybrids are also becoming more popular. Car companies are becoming more and more innovative with these vehicles while also making them more accessible. Chevy introduced a new model of its sub $30k Bolt, while Nissan introduced a model for the Leaf to go along with a concept sedan called the IM. Kia, Volkswagen and Hyundai also introduced one or more electric models. Infiniti also rolled out a concept electric vehicle called the QX, but it broke down before it was driven to the stage for its press conference.

GAC and Mahindra – The Chinese automaker showed off an all-electric concept SUV, called the Entranze, further signifying its interest in entering the U.S. automotive market. GAC had attended previous NAIAS events, introducing a wide variety of vehicles, but current political tensions are making its entry into the market difficult. India-based Mahindra also introduced some unique vehicles like its Roxor, which is not available in the United States despite being built here. While it may take time, it seems that more international companies are angling to get into the U.S. market, which could lead to some significant changes.

Automotive Partnerships – The return of the Toyota Supra had been one of the major talking points leading up to this year’s Detroit Auto Show. Of particular interest is the engine…which will be manufactured by BMW. Automotive partnerships are nothing new, but it seems like they are going to become more common. Ford and Volkswagen have already announced a partnership of their own. This could be something for those in the automotive industry to look out for.