This week all roads are headed to the Frankfurt motor show, which seems to have a slightly different personality this time around.
There are still plenty of production cars to choose from, along with the required exotic and high-performance vehicles that will, as always, excite automotive enthusiasts.
They still are using gasoline to power many of them.
And it would appear that there are a lot of folks in Europe who are still enamored with diesels, since there seems to be lots of them available.
But there is no doubt that electricity is stealing the limelight. If you are interested in a Tesla fighter, the latest and greatest electric vehicles all seem to have found their way to Frankfurt. Porsche introduced what is believed to be the first of many: a pure electric with range and performance and a price tag to match its legendary brand. Reportedly, there is a long line waiting to buy in Europe.
And electrics seem to be covering all their bases with basic transportation along with performance. Something for everyone.
And although it did not have a seat at the table, everyone was well aware of the very severe and difficult emissions laws for Europe that will have a very serious impact on European automotive activity. It is far more serious than anyone in the United States realizes.
If anyone is trying to figure out what is going on, in Europe or North America, they are going to need a road map. It is getting very confusing.
In spite of all the confusion, the auto industry seems alive and well. Although many of the companies are taking a strongly different tack in Europe that may add challenges for the U.S. market, it seems like Europe is comfortable with the new emissions laws and how they will impact European customers.
It is way too soon to try to figure out winners and losers, but there are bound to be plenty of both in the future, and it's anyone's guess as to who they are.
With all the confusion, the show looks to be more interesting than usual. It will help if you bring your crystal ball.
