Details

Category: Other Racing

CHANGING THE WAY WE DRIVE
Innovation and technology are making our roads safer and driving more efficient

Concept cars at the Canadian International AutoShow provide a glimpse into the future.
The Mitsubishi e-Evolution concept has an artificial intelligence system that reads changes in traffic and road conditions
and coordinates with driver intent to make it safer and easier to drive. (Photo courtesy the Canadian International AutoShow)

TORONTO, Ont. — The autonomous car is not quite here — yet.

But the technology and innovation that will bring self-driving cars to our roads is quickly becoming commonplace in today’s cars and trucks. Across the showroom floor at the 2019 Canadian International AutoShow, there are vehicles equipped with technology that sounds a warning signal if you drift out of your lane, helps you parallel park, backs you out of tight spaces or even slows down and stops your car to avoid forward collisions. We are also starting to see adaptive cruise control available as options on some luxury brands, providing acceleration, braking and steering in a highway environment.

“We may not have a fully autonomous car on our streets yet, but the innovation and technology that are going to take us there are making our roads safer and making driving easier and more efficient,” says Jason Campbell, General Manager of the AutoShow. “What we are seeing in production models today used to be the dreams of concept cars and even science fiction. But the future is here, and it’s quite exciting.”

The concept cars at this year’s AutoShow are certainly providing us a glimpse at the next step of autonomous driving.

Besides offering a full electric platform, the Mitsubishi e-Evolution concept has an artificial intelligence system that reads changes in traffic and road conditions and coordinates with driver intent to make it safer and easier to drive.

Also all-electric, the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept introduces “Chauffeur Mode” that allows for a complete hands-free operation, thanks to the vehicle’s by-wire steering, braking, acceleration, lights and signals. The result is smooth, carefree driving with maximum efficiency and reduced risk of accidents.

The stunning Genesis Essentia concept is the company’s first all-electric vehicle. But it also has state-of-the-art vehicle-to-infrastructure and vehicle-to-vehicle connectivity to keep drivers informed of their surrounding conditions, helping avoid accidents.

With a commitment to produce one million electric vehicles by 2025, Volkswagen has introduced the I.D. Crozz concept, a crossover SUV complete with autopilot capabilities, heads-up display and an augmented reality windshield.

The Infiniti QX Inspiration concept was built with a lounge-like atmosphere in the cabin; hinting at the future of autonomous driving, the steering wheel collapses into the dashboard and the pedals retract into the floor, creating even more space should the driver wish to hand over control.

Toyota is quickly expanding its Safety Sense package across its family of vehicles, using autonomous technology to reduce the risk of forward and rear-end collisions. Its Fine Comfort Ride concept is an alternative fuel cell vehicle with a spacious, lounge-like interior with wraparound displays ready to adapt to an autonomous future.

The 2019 Canadian International AutoShow, presented by The Toronto Star and wheels.ca, continues until February 24th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. For tickets and show information, please visit autoshow.ca.

Details

Category: Other Racing

STACKED LINEUP MAKES AUTO EXOTICA A MUST SEE
Popular AutoShow exhibit showcases some of the finest cars in the world

Among the vehicles being showcased in Auto Exotica is the Canadian premiere of the new McLaren Senna, a track-worthy supercar built for the road, and named in honour of one of McLaren's most famed racecar drivers. (Photo Courtesy McLaren)

TORONTO, Ont. — The Canadian International AutoShow is renowned for its showcase of some of the finest and most exclusive luxury and exotic cars in the world.

The curated collection of vehicles in Auto Exotica — this year including brands such as McLaren, Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, Tesla and the North American debut of the first Dubai-built car the Devel Sixteen — is consistently rated by AutoShow fans as one of their favourite feature exhibits of the event.

"Because our fans have told us this is what they want, the AutoShow has made it a priority to assemble a showcase of the greatest exotic cars on the market," says Jason Campbell, General Manager of the AutoShow. "It is rare to see some of these cars on the street. But at Auto Exotica visitors can see all of the exotic marques available across the county and a special showcase of rare exotics owned by Canada's most passionate collectors."

In total, 30 luxury and exotic cars will be on showcase in Auto Exotica, presented by Castrol and the National Post, worth a combined value exceeding $30 million. Auto Exotica can be found on the 100 Level in the North Building of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Among the jewels in this year's exhibit will be the Devel Sixteen. Powered by a monstrous V16 engine and pushing more than 5,000 horsepower, the mysterious and powerful Devel Sixteen has been catching eyes around the world. The Canadian International AutoShow is the first time the Devel Sixteen can seen at any auto show in world outside of Dubai.

The Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame will be showcasing a 1985 Indy Car driven by Mario Andretti in AutoExotica, and the exhibit will also feature the Racing Point F1 Team car that will be launched at the AutoShow during a special event on February 13th. Other rare and exotic vehicles from Lotus/Gentry Lane, Pfaff McLaren, Grand Touring Automobiles, Tesla, Legendary Motorcar Company and Autostrada will also be found in Auto Exotica:

The 2019 Canadian International AutoShow, presented by The Toronto Star and wheels.ca, takes place February 15th to 24th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. For tickets and show information, please visit autoshow.ca.

Details

Category: Other Racing

FAMILY FUN AT THE CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL AUTOSHOW
February long weekend is packed with activities for all members of the family

There is something for every member of the family at the Canadian International AutoShow.

 From family vehicles to special features to the North American debut of the life-sized LEGO® TECHNIC Bugatti Chiron, the Family Day weekend at the AutoShow, presented by Allstate Insurance Company of Canada, is packed with activities and interesting exhibits to see. 

The Volkswagen Family Pass — Start by taking advantage of a 10% discount when you buy a Family Pass of tickets. Get admission for two adults and two children for only $50. 

LEGO® Discovery Zone — There are few children who haven’t played with LEGO®, and chances are their parents played with the ubiquitous building blocks as well. Challenge your imagination at the Discovery Zone, and be among the first in North America to see the life-sized, and operational, Bugatti Chiron made entirely out of LEGO® TECHNIC pieces.

Dancing Cars — Over the Family Day long weekend, Mercedes-Benz will be staging demonstrations of their “Dancing” GLE. Performances are scheduled daily at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. at the Mercedes Benz booth on the 800 level of the South Building. You may also get a chance to see the hydraulics at work in some of the L.A. Car Culture cars in Castrol Alley on the 700 level of the South Building.

Movie Cars — A showpiece at the Volkswagen exhibit (300 level, North Building) is the yellow Beetle that was the star of the Transformers’ film Bumblebee. Can you find other cars around the AutoShow that starred in movies or on TV?

Augmented and Virtual Reality — Get an idea of what it’s like to be behind the wheel of a racecar, or learn more about the inner workings of electric vehicle technology with Augmented and Virtual reality displays. Experience in 4D VR the rigorous testing every Chevrolet is put through, check out the inner workings of Mitsubishi’s plug-in technology in AR or choose your own rugged adventure “behind the wheel” of a Toyota RAV4.

Play esports — The esports installation at the 2019 AutoShow is the biggest the show has ever had. Test your skills in an attempt to qualify for the WorldGaming Network Pfaff Forza 7 Canadian Challenge, driven by Castrol. There has never been more on the line, with $20,000 in cash and prizing, plus a once in a lifetime chance to race with Pfaff Motorsports.

Learn to Draw — Mitsubishi Motors is offering a masterclass in drawing for kids on Family Day with famed DC Comic and Marvel Comic cover artist Ken Lashley (@ledkilla) who has created hundreds of comic covers ranging from Batman, Spiderman, X-men and more. Attendees will learn how to draw the Mitsubishi all-electric, high-performance e-EVOLUTION CONCEPT vehicle on showcase at the Canadian International AutoShow and Triple Diamond, Mitsubishi’s electro crusader of sustainability. Attendees will also learn how to be a sustainability super hero themselves as part of the class. The Mitsubishi Motors booth is located in the North Building. The 45-minute drawing sessions will be held on February 18 at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. Attendees will receive a free gift from Mitsubishi Motors while supplies last and a chance to win a coveted mystery box from Ken Lashley at each session.

Volkswagen Children’s Playcare Centre — If the kids get tired or fidgety while you are browsing through the new cars and exhibits, take advantage of the free processional daycare service filled with exciting activities for the kids – courtesy of your local Volkswagen dealer. There will be arts and crafts, interactive activities and more! The Volkswagen Children’s Playcare Centre can be found on the 600 level in the South Building.

Live Radio — Dave's Corner Garage, Canada's No. 1 Consumer Automotive Radio Talk Show, presents the 3rd Annual Town Hall, Live from the 2019 Canadian International AutoShow, on Family Day from 1-2 pm on the 300 level in the North Building of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Listen to the show on Sirius XM Channel 167, catch on the Dave’s Corner Garage YouTube Channel or drop by the on site studios. For more information, go to davescornergarage.com.

Make your community safer — Allstate® is taking action when it comes to making communities safer and is asking Canadians for help! The #AllstateTakesAction contest is accepting community safety improvement or enhancement ideas throughout the 2019 AutoShow, so visit their booth on the 300 level of the North Building and submit your proposal. You'll be entered for the chance to win a $1,000 gas gift card just for submitting. While at their booth, feel free to talk to one of their agents to learn more about home and auto insurance coverage and potential discounts. Take a fun family photo featuring a 3D crosswalk illusion, which is also one of the ways communities could potentially improve pedestrian safety if you're looking for ideas. But that's not all - you're also encouraged to enter for your chance to win a one-year lease of the 2019 Volvo XC90, perfect for the whole family.

The 2019 Canadian International AutoShow, presented by The Toronto Star and wheels.ca, takes place February 15th to 24th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. For tickets and show information, please visit autoshow.ca.

Stay connected with the Canadian International AutoShow on Instagram @cdnintlautoshow, Twitter @autoshowcanada and Facebook /autoshowcanada.

Details

Category: Other Racing

DIVERSE AND EXCITING LINEUP IN CASTROL ALLEY
There is a full program on the 700 Level of the MTCC
at the 2019 Canadian International AutoShow

Castrol Alley, which takes over the 700 level of the South Building at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre during the Canadian International AutoShow, is consistently one of the most interesting and popular sections of the annual AutoShow. (Photo Courtesy Canadian International AutoShow)

TORONTO, Ont. — Featuring iconic classics, vintage muscle cars, customized street rods, a life-sized LEGO Bugatti Chiron and the largest esports feature ever staged at the Canadian International AutoShow, Castrol Alley is promising a diverse automotive experience.

Long a fan favourite at the AutoShow, Castrol Alley — the 700 level of the South Building at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre — is annually one of the most interesting exhibit areas of the AutoShow, hosting a mix of recurring installations and exciting new displays.

"Castrol is excited to present the total automotive experience in Castrol Alley, showcasing power, performance and entertainment," says John Grant, Vice-President of Marketing at Castrol. "Castrol and the AutoShow have enjoyed a wonderful relationship for the past 24 years, and plan to continue this partnership in the years to come."
This year's Castrol Alley lineup includes:

• Art & the Automobile — Consistently one of the most popular elements of the AutoShow, this year's Art & the Automobile, presented in partnership with Cobble Beach Concours d'Elegance, and supported by Hagerty Insurance, will be entitled ICONS, celebrating some of the most iconic people, events and marques of the 20th century — as viewed through an automotive lens.
  
  
• L.A. Car Culture — A showcase of some of the most unique vehicles from the world-renowned Peterson Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, L.A. Car Culture will exhibit six vehicles — celebrity cars, lowriders, hot rods and custom creations from the streets of Southern California.
  
  
• WorldGaming Network Pfaff Forza 7 Canadian Challenge, driven by Castrol — Canada's most ambitious esports racing competition is at the Canadian International AutoShow, in partnership with the WorldGaming Network (WGN). With $20,000 in cash and prizes and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to race with Pfaff Motorsports on the line — not to mention bragging rights — the WorldGaming Network Pfaff Forza 7 Canadian Challenge, driven by Castrol, puts you in the driver's seat.
  
  
• Custom Car Battlegrounds: AutoShow Edition — For the second year in a row, Performance Auto & Sound Magazine (PASMAG) is celebrating custom creations with Custom Car Battlegrounds: AutoShow Edition. A competition for modern muscle car, hot rod and lowrider enthusiasts, it puts fans in control of the eventual winner.
  
  
• LEGO® Group's 'I Love Vehicles' Experience — In addition to a LEGO® vehicle showcase, play zone and retail space, this installation will host the life-size LEGO® Technic Bugatti Chiron. Built with more than one million LEGO® bricks and powered exclusively using motors from the LEGO® Power Function platform, the model is a fully equipped true replica of the Chiron, including rear spoiler, speedometer, front and back-lights, detachable steering wheel and a brake pedal, all fully functional.
  
  
• Trillium Automobile Dealers' Association — Besides hosting Cars and Jobs, an information booth on the diverse jobs in the automotive field, TADA is also presenting AutoLife, an online engagement platform with a focus on automotive lifestyles.

Castrol Alley is full of exciting displays and fun activities for auto enthusiasts and families alike.
"We are especially excited about the eSports Competition, as motorsport gaming is one of the fastest-growing international hobbies," says Natalee Davis, Castrol Sponsorship Manager. "Even Formula One drivers are competing these days, and specialty digital channels and electronic magazines are popping up to provide coverage. We're delighted that the eSports competition is part of Castrol Alley because it is cutting edge, and Castrol as a brand has always been at the forefront of technology."

As the longest-serving title sponsors of the AutoShow, Castrol is also a proud supporter of Auto Exotica — a collection of some of the most exotic and valuable vehicles in the world.

The 2019 Canadian International AutoShow, presented by The Toronto Star and wheels.ca, takes place February 15th to 24th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. For tickets and show information, please visit autoshow.ca. 

Stay connected with the Canadian International AutoShow on Instagram @cdnintlautoshow, Twitter @autoshowcanada and Facebook /autoshowcanada.