Detroit Auto Show 2016
The robust economy, cheap price of fuel and low interest rates should see new records set at this year's North American International Auto Show. But German manufacturers are still wrestling to recover from "Dieselgate."
Motor City by night
It's a good start to the year for American car manufactures at the auto show (from 11 to 24 January) in "Motor City": The US economy is picking up - and after China it's the world´s biggest car market.
Crossover SUV
This new crossover SUV by General Motor brand Buick will be built in China and sold in the US. The German Car Institute expects around 18 million new cars and utility vehicles to be sold in the US in 2016. After 17.5 million last year, that would be another record, albeit at a slightly slower pace.
Trendsetting design
Futuristic is one word for this car's interior design. The line between cars and entertainment is practically blurred. Detroit, as the first car show of the year, sets the tone for what's "in." Then the real trends emerge at the Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas a few days later.
Everyday runabout
Also on show is the latest version of the Ford Fusion - sold as the "Mondeo" on the European market. Once a staple of the car industry in Detroit, it now lacks the oomph, as well as the environmental and safety features that are becoming the industry standard.
Ready for the racetrack
The Chevrolet Corvette is still the epitome of the automotive American Dream: 6.2 liter engine, preliminary output of 450 horsepower (335 kW) and a V8 engine. Since the 1950s, the Corvette has been the American answer to the much coveted sports cars manufactured in Europe.
New releases
The Germans always look to dazzle Detroit with new releases. Mercedes is showing off its new E-Class this year, with its subtly updated design and all new electronics. A more "sporty hybrid," as it is known in industry circles, is still in the works.
Back to the future
German car manufactures want to polish the somewhat tarnished reputation of diesel technology at the US car show in Detroit. "It's about winning back the trust of customers in North America once again," said the President of the car industry association VDA, Matthias Wissman.
Repentant sinner
It was in the US that VW's emissions scandal first came to light. Since then diesel engine models the world over have been in question. VW CEO Matthias Müller is looking to restore trust at the convention. "Of course we will lay all of our cards on the table when taking part in discussions with American authorities."