LAST DAY TODAY: Family Day Chicago Auto Show 2013 #CAS13

It's your last chance to hit the 2013 Chicago Auto Show.   Today is Family Day and since CPS is IN session on President's Day for the first time, it may be an excellent chance to explore without crowds.   If you're lucky enough to have littles in a different school system with a day off, come on down with the family.

Family Day Fun at CAS13

ChiIL Mama recommends ChiILin' out with Blackhawks fun in The Chevy Family Fun Zone!   ONE GOAL!!   

We also highly recommend checkin' out the life sized hot wheels Camaro and winning a little one in Chevy's rockin' launcher race.  

Get stoked for DreamWorks new release, Turbo, coming July 2013!   




DIY some button fun--also at Chevy.   We used ours for a great cause--Sagezilla's Girl Scout troupe is raising awareness & funds to Stop Puppy Mills.   So we made rockin' buttons for the cause.

There will also be family events throughout the day and a special guest appearance by a Radio Disney star.  The Toyota display will feature a visit by Shedd Aquarium.   Littles can drive kid sized Jeeps on an indoor track and there are numerous auto related video games (& one soccer game) to play throughout the show.   





You can get great photo ops with supermen & hip hamsters.

Children 6 and under are free; Tickets for children 7-12 are $6.

   

There's something for everyone at CAS13 from hot sports cars and rare classics, to eco-friendly and family friendly vehicles.   We'll be posting lots more original video footage, photo filled features, and reviews in the coming months.   Follow ChiIL Mama's adventures under #greatcarhunt as we find a replacement for my beloved RAV4.

Check out our huge, photo filled recaps & coverage of The  2013 Chicago Auto Show right here.

FUTURE TEC--OK-It's not a Holodeck, but close:

Click here to check out the brand new 360Revo Virtual Tour debuting TODAY.    It’s a look outside AND inside the new Stingray!

GREEN SCENE:

2013 CHICAGO AUTO SHOW ATTENDEES ARE TREATED TO MORE THAN 40 ECO-FRIENDLY CHOICESDrivers who Purchase Eco-friendly Vehicles are Eligible for Tax Incentives

The 2013 Chicago Auto Show features 45 electric, hybrid, and diesel vehicles that could save Illinois drivers thousands in fuel costs over the life of the vehicle and make buyers eligible for federal and state tax credits.

The U.S. government offers tax rebates for buyers of electric, range-extended electric, plug-in-hybrid, hybrid and diesel vehicles. The rebates are as follows:

• Electric vehicles (EVs) purchased in or after 2010 may be eligible for a federal income tax credit of up to $7,500.
• Plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles (PHEVs) purchased in or after 2010 may be eligible for a federal income tax credit of up to $7,500.
• Hybrids purchased or placed into service after December 31, 2005 may be eligible for a federal income tax credit of up to $3,400.
• Some diesels purchased or placed into service after December 31, 2005 may be eligible for a federal income tax credit of up to $3,400.

The state of Illinois provides various tax incentives for owning an eco-friendly vehicle, and manufacturers are taking advantage of relaying this message to consumers. The Illinois Alternative Fuels Rebate Program offers Illinois residents a $4,000 rebate for EVs and plug-in hybrids, as well as other vehicles powered with alternative fuels.

Another benefit of switching to an electric, hybrid or diesel vehicle in Illinois is that some local municipalities, such as Oak Park, offer vehicle stickers at no charge and allow plug-in vehicle owners to park for free at village-owned parking meters, garages and lots. The state of Illinois also offers a discounted fee of $18 for electric vehicle registration within the state - compared to the standard fee of $99 for conventional fueled vehicles.

"Since 2010, we have seen an increase in the purchases of eco-friendly vehicles in Illinois," said Dave Sloan, president of the Chicago Automobile Trade Association and Chicago Auto Show general manager. "This year, the Chicago Auto Show has more than 40 hybrid and EV models on the show floor, which is the most we've seen from the manufacturers over the last few years. This gives Illinois residents a variety of options that would allow them to qualify for both state and federal tax rebates and incentives."

At the 2013 Chicago Auto Show, many automakers were eager to discuss how their EV, hybrid and clean-diesel vehicles are the future of eco-friendly technology.

Gary Altman, chief engineer of General Motors, small cars sector, says it is all about timing for General Motors. "We feel it is right in the marketplace right now, to offer a vehicle that would give you technology, performance and efficiency." Altman went on to discuss GM's newest eco-friendly model, the Chevy Cruze Turbo Clean Diesel. "Cruze is known for its efficiency. With this application, with the 2-liter turbo clean-diesel, we'll be able to give you the performance alongside that."
The Ford Fusion Energi plug-in is another example of an EV vehicle featured at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. "It gets 21 miles in all electric mode, and then in gas plus electric it gets 620 miles - which is a best in class range for a sedan right now," says Sean Lightner, program manager of electrified vehicles for Ford.

The types of eco-friendly vehicles on the floor of the Chicago Auto Show include:

• Pure Electric (EVs - such as Nissan Leaf & Ford Focus Electric)
• Extended Range Electric (such as Chevrolet Volt & Fisker Karma)
• Plug-In Hybrid (PHEVs - such as Toyota Prius & Ford Fusion Energi)
• Hybrid (HEVs - such as Honda Accord & Lexus CT 200h)
• Diesel (Chevrolet Cruze Diesel & Audi A3)

Fun Ford facts for Presidents' Day:

About the Chicago Auto Show
The Chicago Auto Show is the largest on the continent, spanning more than 1 million square feet of production, concept, and exotic vehicle exhibit space. In addition to hosting multiple world and North American vehicle debuts, the Chicago Auto Show's First Look for Charity raises more than $2 million annually for 18 worthy Chicago organizations in a single night. The 2013 public show will be February 9-18. For more information please visit ChicagoAutoShow.com or Facebook.com/ChicagoAutoShow.

About The Chicago Automobile Trade Association
Founded in 1904, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association is the nation's oldest and largest metropolitan dealer organization. It is comprised of about 400 franchised new-car dealers and an additional 150 allied members. The group's dealer members employ about 19,000 people in the metropolitan area. The association has produced the world famous Chicago Auto Show since 1935. For more information please visit CATA.info.

The 2013 Chicago Auto Show is officially sanctioned by the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers. Founded in Paris in 1919, it is known as the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles.

ChiILin' Day 2 Friday At Chicago Auto Show #CAS13 #SMP13

Check out ChiIL Mama's original shots from The Chicago Auto Show Press Preview Friday

Come on down to McCormick Place and check out THE largest indoor auto show in North America!

Speed Racer was my first crush.  So, it was fun to meet real life racers, Foust and Deegan with Ford.  They also provided hot breakfast sandwiches and coffee.  Can't go wrong feeding the press!   We recently video taped a Ford Fusion ride along for Drowsey Driver Awareness Week and have some week long test drives in the works.   Check out ChiIL Mama's video by clicking the link above.




Here's Deegan signing a photo for Dugan, my 11 year old son.

One of the highlights of the day was certainly Samaritan's Feet, Buick's philanthropic event that began the morning with a feel good-do good start that can and does change lives.   



We'll have an entire Samaritan's Feet feature including video interviews with Tamera Young of the WNBA's Chicago Sky and others, and our full set of stills up shortly.

Tamera Young of the WNBA's Chicago Sky laces up a new pair of shoes for Jasmine, after washing her feet Friday, February 8, 2013 at the Chicago Auto Show in Chicago, Illinois. Young was participating in an event sponsored by Buick and Samaritan's Feet charity to provide new shoes to 300 young women from Girls in the Game, a Chicago-area organization that promotes sports and fitness among female youth in urban areas. (Photo by Steve Fecht for Buick)

Buick Promotions Manager Chris Ayotte (left center) and Samaritan's Feet Founder and CEO Manny Ohonme (right) wash the feet of two young women before providing them with new shoes (Photo by Steve Fecht for Buick)

Samaritan's Feet Founder and CEO Manny Ohonme (right) gives a high-five to Eloisa after washing her feet and providing her with a new pair of shoes (Photo by Steve Fecht for Buick)

It was fun to connect with fellow blogger & mama to 4 (including twins!), Natasha Nicholes @hfofnicholes, at Toyota.    She looks so natural & at home with their back drop, they ought to hire her as a model! 


We also took a test drive in a new 2014 RAV4, to see how it compares to our original 1996 RAV4--the first year they ever made them.  Yes, these cars have longevity, dependability and staying power!   On the new RAV4's they've tucked the spare tire under, and eliminated the 3rd row seating option, and the interior is roomier.   We also dug Toyota's custom Bears paint job!   Follow their hashtag #letsgoplaces. 




TO DO AT THE CHICAGO AUTO SHOW:   Take a Toyota ride along--it's worth the wait.   You'll leave with a nice ice scraper/snow brush--useful swag to be sure!   You can also record a video for their web site and/or green screen yourself into a photo somewhere fun.   I picked the red carpet and paparazzi.  Toyota's indoor track is a hoot, with personalized messages that pop up along the route!  





TO DO AT THE CHICAGO AUTO SHOW:   GM is rockin' the interactive exhibits in their space from Chevy to Cadillac.  

 

Don't miss the outdoor Cadillac test drives, down two floors, and the classic cars and Chevy Fun Zone, including Blackhawks fun--main level but hiding across the Auto Show from the GM hub.







There are loads of video game style drives to try out, complete with a high score board, a Hot Wheels launcher track where you can win a special edition Chicago Auto Show 2013 cobalt blue Camaro, and even a custom button bar where you can express yourself DIY style.   



Smartphone dying?   ChiIL out.  It's not a problem.  Chevy's got you covered.   They have outlets if you're organized and brought your own charger, and even a variety of Smartphone cords if you didn't!



Friend and fellow blogger +Johanna Cook  @mommacuisine takes a few minutes to ChiIL out with +Bonnie Kenaz-Mara  @chiILMama at one of Chevy's FREE Chill Charging Stations.



We closed out the day with a fabulous panel on Women in Social Media and marketing to women, arranged by my friends and colleagues at Chicagonista, MJ Tam and Beth Rosen.  

  

It was a pleasure to hear GM's inimitable Mary Henige, Director, Social & Digital Communications.   This gregarious mother of two began the day washing children's feet and mentoring, and ended with wise words as a panel speaker and influencer.    



We'll have our Samaritan's Feet video interview with Mary up shortly.   We had an enjoyable evening of conversation the night before, as we shared a table at a GM dinner at Chicago Firehouse Restaurant

The Chicago Auto Show is open daily through February 18th.   Check out their main site to buy tickets, check out daily special events, and more.   

About the Chicago Auto Show The Chicago Auto Show is the largest on the continent, spanning more than 1 million square feet of production, concept, and exotic vehicle exhibit space. In addition to hosting multiple world and North American vehicle debuts, the Chicago Auto Show's First Look for Charity raises more than $2 million annually for 18 worthy Chicago organizations in a single night. The 2013 public show is February 9-18. For more information please visit ChicagoAutoShow.com or Facebook.com/ChicagoAutoShow.

ChiILin' At Chicago Auto Show #CASGM #greatcarhunt #CAS

ChiIL Mama's photo recap of Media Day Thursday--Sneak Peek at Chicago Auto Show 2013

I WON A COBALT BLUE CAMARO AT THE CHICAGO AUTO SHOW!!   Yeah, alright it is just 3" long, but now that I have your attention....   

There were some dramatic unveilings Thursday and some serious hot wheels....and I don't just mean the toys...though you can WIN one of those, too, in the Chevy exhibit.  Two people launch cars simultaneously and if you get yours in the funnel--you're a winner, baby.  These special edition Chicago Auto Show 2013 Hot Wheels are sure to be a favorite.   

Pictured above:  Eric Bjorklund assembles the Chevrolet Camaro Hot Wheels exhibit Wednesday, February 6, 2013, in preparation for the Chicago Auto Show in Chicago, Illinois. The auto show opens to media on Thursday, and to the public on Saturday. (Photo by Steve Fecht for Chevrolet)

Good thing McCormick Place has an expert band of pros on hand to keep the cars spotless.  I think I already got my finger & nose prints pressed up against some of the windows, hungrily peering in.  And I may have even drooled a bit on a few hoods.  We particularly dug the special edition, life sized Hot Wheels Camaros in my absolute favorite color--one brand new release & a classic car from my birth year....   (Sorry, no spoilers, if you have to ask...go find out yourself.)

Fred Quinn details the Hot Wheels Chevrolet Camaro  Wednesday, February 6, 2013, in preparation for the opening of the Chicago Auto Show in Chicago, Illinois. The auto show opens to media on Thursday, and to the public on Saturday. (Photo by Steve Fecht for Chevrolet)

ChiIL Mama's covering as much of the show as we can catch during media previews this Thursday and Friday.   Since we actually are looking to replace my RAV4 this year, I'm extra excited.   Check back with ChiIL Mama/ChiIL Live Shows like we vote in Chi, IL...early and often.   We're editing some rockin' video footage from our 2 Cadillac test drives Thursday and Buick's amazing philanthropy with Samaritan's Feet Friday!   

We'll have those clips and lots more stills, features, and great CAS tips for you in the coming week.

Even GM execs and sports celebs got in on the action with Samaritan's Feet and Buick!!   We'll have a full photo and video filled feature soon.

ChiIL out indeed, Chi IL!   Chevy's gotten smart with the Smart phone charging stations.   So when your phone dies from envy....shooting video & stills of all the amazing autos, you can revive it at Chevy's chill charging spots and revive your tired feet in a comfy seat as well.   The auto show's HUGE, so put on your walkin' shoes!

The new Chevrolet Silverado is shined up Wednesday, February 6, 2013, in preparation for the start of the Chicago Auto Show in Chicago, Illinois. The auto show opens to media on Thursday, and to the public on Saturday. (Photo by Steve Fecht for Chevrolet)

Special shout out to GM for bring us in and wining and dining us.   It was great to see our friend and long time associate "Cadillac Connie" and meet new friends among the GM ranks as well.   GM's got an impressive social media presence, and it's been a pleasure working with them for the past several years.   We had a chance to do 3 GM extended test drives for a week, this past year, and have past and future coverage up under the tag #greatcarhunt.   Check out our photo & video filled adventures with the hot orange Camero SS, Equinox and Suburban!   We have loads more coverage to come.

That said, we're objective journalists here, and not exclusively in anyone's pocket.   Our blog is first and foremost for YOU, our readers, so we're being pretty equal opportunity, checking everyone out for our Chicago Auto Show coverage.   I've been a happy RAV4 driver since 2000, so we're not writing off Toyota quite yet,  and we also own a newer Montero Sport we've been pretty satisfied with.   We've been checking out Subaru, VW, Nissan and Ford's midsize crossover offerings as well.

Once again, check back with us early and often, for loads more Chicago Auto Show 2013 coverage.   Then get out there and experience CAS13 for yourself!

The 2014 Corvette Stingray drives onto the turntable in the Chevrolet exhibit Wednesday, February 6, 2013, in preparation for the start of the Chicago Auto Show in Chicago, Illinois. The auto show opens to media on Thursday, and to the public on Saturday. (Photo by Steve Fecht for Chevrolet)