In just a few days, the North American International Auto Show in Detroit will open to the public, but before that, NBC 24 is getting a sneak peek at what automakers are working on.
The Motor City is gearing up to welcome thousands to COBO Hall later this week. First, the media is taking a spin around the showroom floor where several auto industry giants are unveiling new and exciting models.
On Monday, General Motors introduced a brand new Chevy Cruze. While the vehicle is now a hatchback, the Cruze's transmission will continue to be built at Toledo's GM Powertrain facility.
Chevy says they are incredibly proud of the work done by auto workers at their Toledo plant. Powertrain workers are just one reason the new Cruze runs smoother and quieter than previous models.
Pricing has not yet been announced; however, industry experts say the cost should not jump too much.
Fiat Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne addressed the future of the Jeep Wrangler in Toledo at the North American International Auto Show. Marchionne confirmed a new model of the Wrangler, a pickup truck, will be built in Toledo beginning in late 2017. It is "the best thing that we have ever, ever made," Marchionne said.
The FCA CEO also praised the workforce of Toledo."I've been public on my call of adulation for the Toledo workforce," Marchionne said. "I mean, these guys-what these guys have done to help us in the last six years is these are people who have I haven't even asked them, and they've offered. Which is - it tells you a lot about how labor relations have changed in this country."
U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur was also at the auto show Monday. Kaptur said she believes technological innovations, such as fuel efficiency and proximity sensors on vehicles, will help drive production to Toledo, especially with Fiat Chrysler.
"I think engineering innovations that come out of Toledo, including our university in cooperation with local companies, where we become an added asset to Chrysler Fiat, are very important," Kaptur said.
The auto show will open to the public on Saturday, January 16 through Sunday, January 24.
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