2006 Chicago Auto Show

CHICAGO—Evidence of any trend toward smaller, less fuel-thirsty cars was hard to find at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show, held February 10-19. Nearly all of the new and redesigned models were bigger and/or more powerful. Except for GM and Ford, which promoted flex-fuel (ethanol/gasoline) vehicles, fuel-efficiency sat on the back burner.


Jim Press, president of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., addressed the kickoff breakfast for Media Days, hosted by the Midwest Automotive Media Association. Due to the growing number of over-50 baby boomers, Press foresees a sales boom, as "demographics and economic forces are all in our favor. This generation grew up in their cars" and won't give them up. "This economic juggernaut is still in first gear," and Generation Y "will start to flex its muscles" around 2010. Meanwhile, "we can't disregard the needs of our earth," Press said. Automakers should take steps to "make sure the industry becomes a boon, and not a burden, to society."

Big Trucks
Trucks still rule, though. Jim Press also took the microphone to introduce the second-generation Toyota Tundra full-size pickup. "We've supersized it in all the right places," Press said. Built on a 145.7-inch wheelbase, the pickup is "a gargantuan leap to the head of the pack." Three engines will be available when this Tundra goes on sale in nearly a year, topped by a 5.7-liter V-8. Announcement that towing capacity can top five tons brought a round of applause.


At the General Motors display area, Chevrolet revealed the redesigned Avalanche SUV/pickup. Flaunting a steeply raked windshield and bulging power dome hood, the 2007 Avalanche has a 3-inch wider front track. Both engine choices use Active Fuel Management Technology.

Flex Fuel
A Flex Fuel Avalanche also debuted, as Chevrolet announced a cooperative effort with VeraSun Energy to promote E85 (a blend of 85-percent gasoline and 15-percent ethanol). Ford also announced a partnership with VeraSun to build additional ethanol stations. An E85 version of the F-150 pickup is already on sale, and an E85 Escape Hybrid took center stage.