For more than a century, the Detroit Auto Show has been far more than a showcase of vehicles. It has been a declaration. A statement of identity. Proof that Detroit is not simply part of the automotive story—it is the story.

As the 2026 Detroit Auto Show returns with renewed confidence, sharper vision, and unmistakable momentum, it does so at a moment when Detroit’s dominance, resilience, and creative energy are once again impossible to ignore. This year’s show is not about reclaiming relevance—it’s about reaffirming leadership.

Legacy, Vision, and the Meaning of the Motor City

That renewed sense of purpose was sharpened during the pandemic, when leadership took a hard look at why the Detroit Auto Show exists in the first place. According to Todd Szott, 2026 Detroit Auto Show Chairman, the answer was clear.

“When the show faced its struggles during the pandemic, we did a deep dive into why we put on the Detroit Auto Show. Among many reasons, we found that our primary driver was to help keep Detroit to be known as the Motor City, and Michigan as home to the Auto Industry. We want the show to not only feature the latest and greatest in mobility, but to celebrate our industry in Detroit and Michigan.”

That philosophy is reinforced by Sam Klemet, Executive Director of the Detroit Auto Show and the Detroit Auto Dealers Association, who sees legacy as a foundation—not a limitation.

“The Detroit Auto Show carries more than a century of history, and that’s not something you move away from — it’s something you build on. Detroit didn’t become the Motor City by standing still. It became the Motor City by innovating, taking risks, and leading.”

Detroit’s Role in the Global Automotive Story

Detroit’s place in the global automotive ecosystem is not symbolic—it is earned. Szott believes the show’s return to January is essential to reinforcing that truth.

“I believe that the Detroit Auto Show is a big piece of our Motor City culture. Detroit deserves to have a focus on our city each January where we celebrate and look forward to the next year and how our auto industry will evolve.”

Klemet expands on that responsibility.

“We say it often — There Is Only One Motor City. But for that to be true, Detroit has to continue showing the world why it earned that title in the first place.”

That sentiment is echoed by Lincoln Phillip, Board President of the Detroit Auto Dealers Association, who sees the show as a reflection of the city itself.

“The Detroit Auto Show’s resurgence is emblematic of the city’s persona—its grit, tenacity, and creative flair,” Phillip says. “This year’s show will highlight an innovative reset as the industry pivots away from the Battery Electric Vehicle mandate and toward consumer-driven products, with an eye toward affordable transportation solutions.”

Together, those perspectives reinforce a central truth: Detroit didn’t just build the auto industry—it continues to shape where it’s going.

Innovation, Technology, and Real-World Engagement

The 2026 Detroit Auto Show reflects a market grounded in reality. According to Szott, consumer behavior and economic conditions are shaping what automakers bring to the floor.

“I expect a focus on Hybrid powertrains this year as EV adoption has slowed with the end to the EV Tax Credits.”

For Klemet, that shift is part of a larger evolution—one that emphasizes engagement over speculation.

“At this year’s show, I’m especially excited about how brands are showcasing not just what’s next, but how people can actually engage with it — whether that’s hands-on experiences, immersive storytelling, or seeing multiple powertrains and vehicle segments side by side.”

This approach reflects the show’s transformation into what Klemet calls a “Content Show”—a platform that extends far beyond the walls of the convention center.

Community Impact and Economic Power

Beyond innovation and spectacle, the Detroit Auto Show delivers tangible economic impact. Szott points to the real-world effects felt across the city each January.

“As we moved back to January, I personally received multiple thank you’s from local hotel and restaurant employees for having the show during a slow time of the year,” he says. “These hospitality employees are often residents of Detroit who appreciate the surge of business that the Detroit Auto Show provides.”

Phillip emphasizes that the show’s success carries deep civic meaning.

“The success of the show is far more than symbolic—the economic impact to the city is enormous,” Phillip explains. “And on the subject of heart, the Charity Preview is the largest charity event in the state.”

He also underscores that the show’s philanthropic reach grows alongside its success.

“The breadth of our charitable endeavors is indexed by the success of our show.”

Leadership, Collaboration, and Shared Ownership

At its core, the Detroit Auto Show is about collaboration—across manufacturers, dealers, city leaders, sponsors, and the community.

“At the end of the day, we are a stage provider where the vehicles and our industry are the stars,” Szott explains. “Our challenge is to provide a good return on investment and to ask our Detroit manufacturers to do special things that put a spotlight on the fact that Detroit is where Automotive Innovation happens.”

Klemet agrees, noting that alignment is what sustains the show.

“This show works because people believe in it and believe in Detroit,” he says. “By treating the show as a shared content platform — not just an event — we’ve created a culture where partners feel heard and innovation is encouraged.”

Phillip sees that shared belief as a collective responsibility.

“I urge everyone to take the opportunity to visit the show. We all have a personal stake in its success,” he says. “This is the Motor City. We are automotive enthusiasts driven by innovation and a passion to keep moving forward. We are Detroit proud. Motor on.”

One City. One Industry. One Motor City.

The 2026 Detroit Auto Show arrives at a pivotal moment—for the industry, the city, and the culture of mobility itself. With renewed leadership, deeper purpose, and a platform built for the future, Detroit isn’t chasing relevance.

There may be many auto shows around the world.

But there is only one Motor City.

And in 2026, Detroit is once again proving why the spotlight belongs right here.