Crescent-News.com - GM Powertrain and UAW 211 pitch tents and also new vehicles

By HEATHER BAUGHMAN

baughman@crescent-news.com

The big tents went up over the weekend at the Northtowne Mall in preparation for this weekend's 2008 GM Powertrain New Car Show, which will run Friday-Sunday.

This annual event brings out people from all over northwest Ohio for the unveiling of the 2008 model vehicles. The car show also features a variety of community displays, door prizes, food and fun for the entire family.

For decades, GM and UAW Local 211 have been hosting an annual car show in Defiance, giving locals a chance to find their perfect new vehicle.

This year is no different with one-stop shopping giving visitors a chance to talk with area dealers about a large variety of GM vehicles and products. With over 100 cars, trucks and sport utility vehicles at the event, people will also have the opportunity to get a hands-on feel for the vehicles on display.

"GM will have its new 2008 line-up at the show along with all of the other great GM vehicles," said plant communications manager, Brynn Dilloway. Also featured are concept vehicles, the Chevrolet powered Sprint Car from MAR Technology (the driver will be present during part of the show for pictures), an MIS information booth, NASCAR display and more.

A number of area dealerships will be on hand, bringing with them "a complete representation of the GM family," Dilloway said.

Also, there will be exhibits on E-85 fueled vehicles, GMAC and a car seat safety inspection will be held Saturday from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

"GM has a great and exciting lineup of dependable and affordable vehicles. We are the leaders with 16 vehicles that are E-85 capable and offer the largest lineup of 30-plus mpg vehicles," Dilloway said.

Some of the vehicles that will be featured during the car show are the 2008 Malibu and several crossover vehicles, "all of which have received great reviews," Dilloway added.

Several area organizations and businesses will also be featured during the car show in booths around the tent, including food, provided by Charlie's on the Road, with portions of the proceeds benefiting United Way). Door prizes will be drawn Sunday at 4 p.m.

The car show will run 6-8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.