25 1940s Postwar Automobile Shows Another factor that kept the 1940s innovative automobile designs from getting wide-spread attention was the absence of the premier show for the debut of new cars — the Chicago Auto Show (CAS). Manufacturers showcased their cars at the CAS and for some it was the only event they attended. But because of WWII, the Chicago Auto Show was shut down from 1941 thru 1949. While the New York Auto Show and Detroit Auto Show returned in 1947, these shows didn’t carry the weight and reputation of Chicago. General Motors did begin their Motorama shows in 1949 and showcased their own cars, but these shows were not for other manufacturers such as Packard. There were other car shows in the 1940s and these shows marked the beginning of the hot rod, custom and race car age and included: • In 1948 and 1949 Hot Rod Expositions were held at the Armory in Los Angeles California • In 1950 five events were held including the Petersen Motorama in California, Detroit Custom Car Show in Michigan, the Hot Rod & Motor Sports Show in Los Angeles California, the Indianapolis Custom Auto Show in Indiana and the National Roadster Show in Oakland, California. Packard Brought on Stage a Striking 1950 Packard Custom 8 Convertible at the 1950 Chicago Auto Show
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjA0NTk=