The 2012 Saint Louis Auto Show Lasts Through Saturday January 29

Beginning January 26, and lasting until Sunday evening, January 29, the 2012 Saint Louis Auto Show is showcasing more than 500 all-new cars, trucks and SUVs at the Edward Jones Dome at America’s Center.  Vaughn Gittin Jr., drifting superstar, will wow audiences with drifting demonstrations every day. New this year is Camp Jeep, a unique, interactive off-road experience.  EcoCity is returning to the Auto Show, highlighting alternative fuel possibilities. The annual Pistons & Pearls Charity Gala will be held Saturday, January 28, with all proceeds going to local charities.  

Camp Jeep features a 25,000-square foot exhibit and gives attendees a chance to experience the extreme off-road capabilities of Jeep vehicles without leaving the show floor. The course is comprised of several obstacles that simulate the rigorous testing Jeep vehicles endure before customers get behind the wheel.   

At the Million Dollar Mile, car enthusiasts can marvel at some of the world’s most exciting auto designs.  The collection includes the most exotic luxury and sports cars from Lamborghini, Bentley, Maserati, Rolls Royce and more.

The GM Ride and Drive event offers visitors the opportunity to explore GM models, including the Chevy Volt.  Toyota is presenting behind-the-wheel tours of the Reinvented 2012 Toyota Camry and the all-new Prius v. Kia Motors is showcasing the all-new value-packed Rio 5-Door, and the 2012 Kia Soul, Optima, and Optima Hybrid. Kia Motors is also presenting Kia Karaoke – participants will receive a free prize (while supplies last) and are entered for a chance to win a $1000 gift card.

Ameren Missouri Pure Power is once again donating enough Renewable Energy Certificates to cancel out the carbon emissions from the use of the electricity to power the Dome for the Show.  Visitors can learn more about green initiatives and ride with a professional driver in eco-friendly vehicles at EcoCity, courtesy of Valvoline NextGen.

Kids can stay entertained in the Kids’ Zone, where they can climb The Spire, an indoor rock climbing wall. Children can also race miniature NASCAR remote control cars around a 1/10th scale race track, provided by RORRing Entertainment.  

This year’s Pistons & Pearls Charity Gala will feature a performance by Las Vegas headliner The Mentalist, Gerry McCambridge, who is the inspiration for the hit TV show, “The Mentalist.” Guests can stick around for an exclusive tour of the Million Dollar Mile after the Gala, and the After Party at The Pepper Lounge.

The 2012 Saint Louis Auto Show will be open from noon to 9 p.m. on Thursday, January 26, noon to 10 p.m. on Friday, January 27, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, January 28 and from 10 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 29. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children 6-12 years old and free for children under six. For more information, visit www.saintlouisautoshow.com. Hope to see you there!