Dallas’ North Texas Auto Expo – SHOW ‘NUFF?

Dallas’ North Texas Auto Expo

SHOW ‘NUFF?

The 2024 North Texas Auto Expo was very disappointing this year. I’ll guess it was not an auto show, but a marginal display of vehicles – cars, if you will, on carpet. While the media was invited, the only manufacturer offering to do a product walk-around was Nissan; only after I arrived did I learn Toyota was doing a product presentation, also. Nissan had a Frontier pickup with a NISMO® package for camping, and it was amazing; for just an extra $9,000 this vehicle is ready for action. 

As you’d guess, several all-electric EVs were on display. Sales have not been robust; manufacturers went full bore on EVs and they now understand that was a mistake – now hybrids and plug-ins  are the way to go. I remember not too long ago when Toyota’s Akio Toyoda talked about how most markets are not ready for all electric, and his views were widely criticized. In hindsight, it looks as if Mr. Toyoda nailed it. 

The White House has kept pushing, and even with deep incentives the sale of battery-electrics has lagged. Many dealers find EVs are backing up on the lots; most customers want hybrids or plug-in hybrids, both of which are selling extremely well.

Most visible at this year’s Expo was a Chevrolet truck with an American flag flying high on the display. Ford trucks are celebrating 40-plus years of sales leadership, but the Tremor® package on Fords F-250 brings with it a price tag of over $70K. Ford also had its Maverick compact (with available hybrid drivetrain) on display and – as I understand it – it’s just about impossible to get one this year. The Ford Bronco was front and center, and as you’d know it’s have been a huge success since its introduction. As no one was around for Ram and Chevrolet (and I had no communication from either OEM) I’ll assume they just don’t care. 

I did see the GEMCAR company selling a golf cart-type vehicle; four models were on display. with a representative to answer questions. Pricing for these units ranges from $6K to $30K. Most look like golf carts for the PGA HQ. You can visit their website for additional information at GEMCAR.com. (And perhaps next year it becomes a ‘cart’ show…)

Communication from the show was dismal at best. After nine emails and a couple of calls I finally got the details – such as they were – at the last minute. I really did not need them, as I just walked in.