The 2026 Detroit Auto Show, held January 13–25, returned to the heart of the Motor City with its signature blend of innovation, heritage, and ambition. Media and Industry Days on Wednesday, January 14, and Thursday, January 15, provided early access to the show’s evolving vision, including the Mobility Global Forum, AutoMobili-D, and various media-focused activations. While the event continues to showcase the future of mobility, this year’s show revealed a noticeable shift — one that sparked reflection on both its challenges and its enduring importance.
From an AMPS Magazine perspective, the show carried a different energy compared to past years. Historically, Detroit was the global stage where nearly every major automaker, including foreign manufacturers, competed to unveil their most groundbreaking vehicles. In 2026, the presence of international car brands felt more limited, contributing to the sentiment that the show has, in some ways, lost a bit of its former luster. While domestic manufacturers maintained strong visibility, the absence of many global players changed the dynamic and reduced the competitive excitement that once defined the event.
The speaker lineup and panel discussions offered meaningful insights into mobility, sustainability, and the evolving automotive ecosystem. However, there was a noticeable absence of some of the most anticipated voices, including Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Their perspectives on infrastructure, electric vehicle policy, and transportation innovation would have added significant depth to the dialogue. While their remarks may be accessible online, their physical presence would have elevated the impact of the Media and Industry Days.
Despite these challenges, what set the 2026 Detroit Auto Show apart was its focus on immersive experiences and forward-thinking technology. The emphasis on electric vehicles, autonomous systems, and sustainable manufacturing reflected where the industry is heading rather than where it has been. Hands-on activations allowed attendees to interact directly with next-generation dashboards, smart mobility platforms, and emerging transportation solutions, making the experience more engaging than a traditional showroom floor.
Another key difference this year was the show’s commitment to blending automotive culture with broader lifestyle and technology trends. AutoMobili-D and the Mobility Global Forum highlighted the intersection of cars, digital connectivity, urban planning, and sustainability. This shift demonstrated that today’s auto show is no longer just about vehicles — it’s about how mobility integrates into daily life, business, and global infrastructure.
For car lovers, the Detroit Auto Show remains a must-attend event. Even with fewer foreign automakers, the show offers a rare opportunity to experience concept vehicles, advanced design, and emerging technology up close. The excitement of seeing future models before they hit the road, engaging with engineers and designers, and participating in interactive exhibits makes the show uniquely compelling. It is also a powerful reminder of Detroit’s legacy and its evolving role as a global mobility hub.
While the 2026 Detroit Auto Show reflects an industry in transition, it continues to serve as a vital platform for innovation, conversation, and inspiration. At AMPS Magazine, we left with both appreciation for its progress and hope for its continued evolution — confident that Detroit will always remain at the center of automotive history and its future.
