The latest unveilings from auto manufacturers along with concept cars such as this one are on display at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. (Jim Fox/QMI Agency)

Top spots for auto lovers

Zoom, zoom.

Automakers are putting the pedal to the metal after turning the corner from a couple of years of stalled results and business on the skids.

Consumers can "kick some tires" and inspect the latest developments and product unveilings at these upcoming auto shows.

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The Motor City cruises back

One of the most anticipated of the big-league shows is in Detroit that will feature some 40 worldwide unveilings and 500 vehicles on display.

The 2011 North American International Auto Show from Jan. 15 to 23 at the Cobo Center will also feature a full floor, ride and drive.

"The public will be treated to highly anticipated debuts from exhibitors such as Audi, BMW, Chrysler, GM, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota and Volkswagen, to name a few," said show chairman Barron Meade.

This is an opportunity to view "exciting worldwide, never-before-seen products, as well as significant North American introductions which will steer the direction of the industry for years to come."

The show will also highlight "highly anticipated innovative technological advancements" by auto companies and suppliers.

Attracting in excess of 700,000 people, it presents the most innovative designs and is North America's largest and most prestigious automotive showcase.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation's Town Square and Smarter Living display area has the ride and drive indoors with a test track. It features electric-drive and hybrid vehicles from domestic and foreign manufacturers.

Technologies featured will include solar cars, charging stations, batteries, transit connect, rolling chassis and alternative energies.

For a sneak peak, there's the glitzy black tie Charity Preview gala next Friday (Jan. 14) from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. for a look at all the chrome and glitter. It will include a concert by The Rockets, a legendary Detroit rock band.

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Canada's really big auto show

The Canadian International AutoShow will present more than 1,000 vehicles in "dazzling displays of design, engineering and pure spectacle" from Feb. 18 to 27 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Along with the latest and greatest, the show has a salute to the Chevrolet Camaro, a vehicle "rich in historical significance and passion amongst car enthusiasts."

Also on display will be the winning vehicles selected by leading automotive journalists after a rigorous Test Fest weekend.

There will also be the vehicles receiving the Natural Resources Canada fuel consumption ecoENERGY awards and the 10 finalists in the classic vehicle Cruise Nationals.

The show, which attracts 300,000 people, will have Family Day on Feb. 21 with special offers and contests and with a children's playcare centre.

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Ooh, la la vehicles in Montreal

Performance and electric cars will shine at the upcoming Montreal International Auto Show.

To be held at the convention centre, Palais des congres de Montreal, from Jan. 14 to 23, auto manufacturers will show off their latest models and technologies.

New is the Performance Zone with some 30 modified vehicles and race cars while the environmentally themed exhibit On Route to the Future will highlight the latest technologies for electric cars.

Auto Hebdo presents Suzuki test drives with showgoers able to try the Kizashi along with about a dozen other vehicles with various options.

Montreal has its Charity Preview on Jan. 13 hosted by stand-up comedian and car lover Lise Dion.

"Joining us for this event will give you the opportunity to be in the front seat to appreciate the newest vehicles of the industry before everybody else, while providing valuable support to the health-care community," said show president Carmine D'Argenio.

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Keep your motor running

Other major auto events include:

- Quebec City Auto Show, March 1-7. www.salondelautodequebec.com

- Calgary International Auto Show, March 9-13. www.autoshowcalgary.com

- Vancouver International Auto Show, March 29-April 3. www.vancouverinternationalautoshow.com

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If you go:

- The North American International Auto Show, Cobo Center, One Washington Blvd., Detroit (9 a.m. to 10 p.m., except Jan. 23 to 7 p.m.).

Tickets: $12 U.S.; $6, seniors/children (seven to 12). www.naias.com

Charity Preview $250; www.charitypreview.com; 1-888-838-7500.

- Canadian International AutoShow, Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 255 Front St. W. (10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., except Feb. 27 to 6 p.m.). www.autoshow.ca; (416) 585-3660.

Tickets: $20; $7, seven to 12; $40, family pass; $30, two-day pass. Discounts to Jan. 15.

- Montreal International Auto Show, Palais des congres, 201 Viger W. (10 a.m. to 10 p.m., except Jan. 23 to 7 p.m.). Tickets: $15; $12, seniors and students; $5, six to 12; $35, family pass. Charity Preview, $175. www.montrealautoshow.com

Jim Fox can be reached at onetanktrips@hotmail.com