Looking at gleaming new cars and trucks is fun, but — let’s face it — driving them is more fun.
With the ride-and-drive events at the Atlanta International Auto Show, consumers can actually get behind the wheel and drive vehicles from several manufacturers, including Chrysler, General Motors, Kia and Toyota.
“It’s amazing how many people would ask if they could drive one of the new models on the show floor [at previous shows],” said Larry Peck, experiential marketing manager for GM.
This year, the automaker will allow attendees to drive some of its most popular vehicles including the Camaro, Buick Regal, GMC Terrain, Cadillac CTS and SRX, and the electric Chevy Volt.
The test drives are free and will take place on a designated route on streets around the Georgia World Congress Center. Manufacturers say consumers may test drive as many cars as they wish. Registration closes an hour before the end of the event each day, so it’s best to sign up early.
Each manufacturer runs its own test drives, but some general requirements apply to anyone taking part. Drivers must have a valid driver’s license and be at least 21; passengers must be at least 8.
There is a little paperwork involved — all drivers and passengers are required to complete a waiver of liability, and adults will have to provide follow-up information. Drivers also must take a breathalyzer test.
During each test drive, participants will be accompanied by an in-vehicle host who can answer questions about the vehicle and guide drivers around the course.
It’s no surprise that more automakers are offering test drives as part of the auto show experience. General Motors research shows that consumers who take part in them have a higher opinion of the automaker and say they are more likely to consider buying a GM vehicle, Peck said. GM hopes that increased opinion of its brand will translate into more visits to dealerships and, ultimately, more sales.
“It’s great to see the smiles on people’s faces when they finish the drive,” Peck said. “It doesn’t matter if they’re longtime GM customers or looking at us for the first time, people tell us they will definitely consider buying one of our new cars, trucks or crossovers as a result of driving at the show. Plus they really have a great time driving a brand-new car at the show.”
Kia sees ride-and-drive events as good opportunities to show off new products — such as the 40-mpg Rio — to people who are looking at the brand for the first time, Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing and communications for Kia Motors America, said in a statement.
RIDE-AND-DRIVE SCHEDULE
Cadillac
Friday: Noon to 6 p.m.
Saturday/Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Chrysler
Friday: Noon to 6 p.m.
Saturday/Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
GM
Friday: Noon to 6 p.m.
Saturday/Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Kia
Wednesday-Friday: Noon to 8 p.m.
Saturday/Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Toyota
Wednesday-Friday: Noon to 8 p.m.
Saturday/Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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