The Los Angeles Auto Show opened on Friday, showcasing at least 20 world debuts but without new models from two of the Big 3 U.S. car makers.
At the 10-day show, only Ford among the beleaguered Big 3 will be introducing new models.
General Motors, whose executives have said it is months away from running out of cash, dropped plans to introduce a new Buick LaCrosse sedan and a Cadillac CTS coupe at the show, rescheduling their debuts for January's North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Chrysler, which is also running out of cash and may revive merger talks with General Motors if Congress approves an aid package for the auto industry, will not be introducing any new vehicles at the show.
Ford, considered to be in the best financial shape among the Big 3 U.S. automakers, is using the show to introduce new versions of the Mustang and Fusion and a Fusion hybrid expected to go more than 700 miles (about 1,120 kilometers) on a single tank of gasoline.
Ford's Mercury division will introduce a new version of the Mercury Milan midsize luxury sedan and a Mercury Milan hybrid, while its Lincoln division will introduce the 2010 MKZ midsize luxury sedan, which includes a more powerful 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine and a refined waterfall grille and front fascia.
In addition to at least 20 world debuts, 11 North American vehicle debuts are expected at the show, which runs through Nov. 30. More than 40 of the newest hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles will be on display, according to organizers.
North America debuts include the BMW 7 series, Audi's Q5 TDI, A6 and A3 TDI, the Ferrari California, Ferrari's first retractable hardtop convertible, the Lexus IS convertible, and the Kia Soul hatchback.
The show's highlights include the world premieres of the next generation Nissan 370 Z sports car, Nissan's all-new Cube mini multipurpose vehicle, the redesigned Lexus RX 450h hybrid, the first Infiniti G37 convertible, the fully redesigned Mazda 3 sedan, the next generation Porsche Boxster roadster and Porsche Cayman sports car, and the all-electric Mini E.
"With the economy and environment shaping more of our decisions late, the auto show plays an even more important role in providing information to consumers about a new generation of fuel efficient cars and alternative fuel vehicles," said Andy Fuzesi, the show's general manager.
Source:Xinhua
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