Feature News

DETROIT, Dec. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- The relationship between the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) and WDIV/Channel 4 will take another step forward in 2009 as live coverage of the Charity Preview event resumes by this exclusive broadcast media partner.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20081110/CLM078LOGO )

In addition to airing the Charity Preview live on Jan. 16 from 6-9 p.m., WDIV has also committed to airing more live broadcasts during industry preview and public days as part of their overall commitment to additional coverage.

"As global eyes focus on NAIAS this year the additional coverage of the show becomes even more important from a local and national standpoint," said Marla Drutz, Vice President and General Manager, WDIV/Channel 4. "We are committed to our position as a news leader in the Detroit area and will be offering expanded coverage of this extraordinary show."

As the official broadcast partner of NAIAS, WDIV/Channel 4 is the only television station that is licensed to use the NAIAS name or logo in its promotional materials, or sell packages related to the NAIAS and Charity Preview.

"The years of experience that WDIV brings combined with the talented on and off air team will provide viewers with an incredible amount of coverage of NAIAS and the excitement it brings to Detroit and the world," said Rod Alberts, executive director, NAIAS. "Charity Preview is one of the top single-night fundraising events in the nation, and now those at home will be able to participate in the excitement by watching the coverage provided by WDIV and the live cameras that will be placed around the floor during the event."

Tickets for Charity Preview are currently available and can be purchased by calling 888-838-7500, or by visiting www.charitypreview.com . The annual event has raised over $77 million for children's charities in metro Detroit since its inception in 1976.

    NAIAS 2009 Official Dates
    January 11 - 25 at Cobo Center in Detroit
    Press Preview will be held Sunday, Jan. 11 through Tuesday, Jan. 13
    Industry Preview will be held Wednesday, Jan. 14 and Thursday, Jan. 15

The annual black-tie Charity Preview gala will be held Friday evening, Jan. 16

Public Days will be held Saturday, Jan. 17 through Sunday, Jan. 25

About the North American International Auto Show

Entering its 21st year as an international event, the NAIAS is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world, providing unparalleled access to the automotive products, people and ideas that matter most - up close and in one place. One of the largest media events in North America, the NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles, the Paris-based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world. The NAIAS Web site can be accessed at www.naias.com .