North American International Auto Show Adds European Industry Executive to Team

DETROIT, Nov. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) today announced that it has named to its team former director of the Frankfurt International Motor Show, Dr. Kunibert Schmidt. The announcement, which is effective immediately, was made by Rod Alberts, executive director, NAIAS. Alberts said Schmidt will bring years of valuable, international auto show experience to NAIAS.

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"Kunibert Schmidt is a highly creative, and respected individual, and one of the true all-stars in the business of international motor shows," said Alberts. "Under his direction, the Frankfurt show became one of the largest and most important in the world. As a result, in one way or another, we've all learned from the Frankfurt show."

After 32 years with the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), which presents the Frankfurt show biennially, Schmidt retired in early 2010 as managing director. He also served as a member of the VDA Management Board for 19 years. He joins the NAIAS as an industry consultant, and is responsible for representing the Detroit show to manufacturers, media, suppliers and other important audiences in Europe. Schmidt, who is based in Berlin, has and continues to be a consultant to global Tier One automotive supplier Schaeffler.

Former German Transport Minister and current VDA President Matthias Wissmann said Schmidt has earned an impeccable reputation in the automotive industry.

"Dr. Schmidt is an individual who is highly regarded and respected around the world by auto manufacturers and suppliers, as well as the automotive press," said Wissmann. "These are the very people who are critical to the success of motor shows here and abroad. His addition to the Detroit team will also come as good news to German manufacturers, which continue to look to the North American International Auto Show for critical worldwide product introductions."

About the North American International Auto Show

Entering its 24th year as an international event, the NAIAS is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world, providing unparalleled access to the automotive products, people and ideas that matter most - up close and in one place. One of the largest media events in North America, the NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles, the Paris-based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world.

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NAIAS 2012 Dates

• Press Preview: Mon-Tue, Jan. 9-10, 2012
• Industry Preview: Wed-Thu, Jan. 11-12, 2012
• Charity Preview: Fri, Jan. 13, 2012
• Public Show: Sat-Sun, Jan. 14-22, 2012

SOURCE North American International Auto Show