Showing off the expensive sheet metal
As with so many other facets of the economy, the annual Auto Show isn’t meant for me. However, I do watch the local news, and I’m now an informed consumer. No need to head on over to know what’s on display.
Money, or the equivalent in well sculpted sheet metal. With shiny paint and familiar logos. Therein lies the charm of the auto show. Remember, nothing moves, which is not exactly how we imagine fast cars. There are price tags, and the realization that half a million dollars for a single model won’t get past the the approval stage at the local bank should be enough to limit the fever. Alas, no. Certain manufacturers admit to coming to the show in the hope that a fool or three will take the bait.
I do appreciate certain aspects. Hydro Quebec is presenting their “plug in your car” network, in the hope that someone will purchase an eco-car. There are software simulations, to impress on the heavy footed that racing from one stop light to the next doesn’t get you “there” any faster, but you will need to visit the gas station sooner. I like that someone, somewhere will clue in to a greener point of view.
The local public transit system doesn’t feel the need to appear. Not the place to attract new users, I guess. Remember, my loaner limo is worth a cool half million, just like the Lamborghini, and I don’t have to worry about the paint getting scratched, or finding a place to park the beast. Besides, it’s nice to share with others. Didn’t you remember anything from kindergarten?
