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Review of the North American International Auto Show 2008
Reviews
By Dean Behm
Despite the sagging economy, the 2008 NAIAS – the Detroit auto show – was very well attended, with a few new and many familiar faces well represented. As is usually the case at this event, many interesting concept cars were introduced, as well as new models for the incumbent car producers. Many Chinese manufacturers were present, with improved quality cars over previous years.
New Energy Technology
Fisker Automotive was present and introduced a new all-electric car, beating the Chevrolet Volt to the market place. In addition, the Fisker model had a novel solar panel roof to power accessories in the car and to help recharge the onboard drive batteries.
The Chevrolet Volt was also present, but this model is not expected to be introduced by GM until 2010. GM is still working on improving the battery technology in this car.
Styles
Use of large metal aluminum flakes along with smaller aluminum flakes were present in several silvers and blacks.
Interestingly, there were very few greens to speak of in the stylings.
VMP
This year, more than ever, there were many cars with the liquid metal appearance from vacuum-metalized pigments (VMPs) - more than in the past, and moving now from concept to production cars. However, this is still not widespread at all in production due to too many technical hurdles still to be overcome.
Matt Finishes
Non-glossy finishes made their presence known, but more on concept cars.
Effect Transitions
Red shade undertones on blues, orange shade undertones on reds …
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Strong transitions on angles: here’s a case using a Ciba pigment, Ciba® IRGAZIN® DPP Rubine TR in basecoat with a tinted clearcoat on the Ford Verve, scheduled for production in 2010:
Strong effect – Flex®
Not so present on concept cars as in past years was the strong transition effect seen with “Flex” interference pigment types.
Carbon Fiber
There were many cases of the use of carbon fiber accents on hoods, roofs and under-panels on cars. The Corvette ZR1 (shown below), commercial in 2008, has a carbon fiber roof.
In order to protect this composite material, a protective coating needs to be placed over the composite.
Corvette ZR1’s carbon fiber roof
Corvette ZR1
Motorcycle tank carbon fiber
Hood of concept car – Carbon fiber
Chevrolet Camaro – To be introduced in 2009 or 2010
Novel Concept Cars
Strong Styling with Lighting and Grills
Luxury
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