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For the first time in Chicago Auto Show history, show officials will be hosting a Young and Future Drivers event during the show’s opening day, Feb. 14, from 2-8 p.m. Auto manufacturers and exhibitors will be hosting entertaining and informational activities within their displays specifically designed for teen drivers.

The Young and Future Drivers event spans across the entire showroom floor with highlights including:

• Acura will showcase an interactive table including several safety-related features in 3D.
• Honda will feature an interactive, in-vehicle touch screen that explains Honda’s driver assist technology “Honda Sensing.”
• The Chevy Theater in the Chevy display will include programming highlighting the latest available safety innovations available in some of its brand-new vehicles.
• Hyundai will conduct Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto in-vehicle demonstrations to ensure drivers are familiar with using Google Voice or Apple’s Siri natural speech to make calls, send messages and the navigation app via their smartphones – all in an effort to reduce driver distraction.
• Kia will feature its BRAKES activation: Be Responsible And Keep Everyone Safe
• Visit Mazda the Mazda booth from 2-6 p.m. to take your picture outside the 2016 MX-5 Miata and be able to share it via Instagram, FB, and Twitter!
• Meet Stephan Gregoire, a 7-time Indy 500 competitor who has also competed in the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans four times, in the MINI display. Also, new drivers can learn more about MINI’s Miles Ahead Motoring school – a half day of adrenaline-charged performance driving that takes place at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
• Fifth Third Bank will be giving away #NoTextRed nail polish to bring awareness to the horrific effects texting and driving.
• Toyota will have its TeenDrive365 Distracted Driving Simulator including virtual reality technology with Oculus Rift glasses.
• Volvo will feature a Pedestrian Detection Safety System Display.
• Visit the Illinois Secretary of State’s exhibit to pledge to not use your cell phone while driving and receive a special gift.
• The Illinois State Police will provide visitors a Fatal Vision Experience to demonstrate how one's judgment is distorted when they consume alcoholic beverages. The participant will wear 'Fatal Vision Goggles' which will give the perception they are impaired. The trooper will have the individual perform a few tasks with and without the goggles on to show the difference.

“This new Chicago Auto Show event is a great step in further teaching and educating young drivers about safety on the road,” said Dave Sloan, Chicago Auto Show general manager.  “We applaud the manufacturers and exhibitors for making this event not only educational but fun for teens to participate in.”

All teens in attendance will receive a gift bag, pledge to not text and drive and get to participate in the #CASTeenChallenge social media contest for the chance to win prizes.

For school groups or organizations interested in participating in the event this year or future years, please contact Tim McBride tmcbride@drivechicago.com or Jennifer Morand jmorand@drivechicago.com. For more information about the Chicago Auto Show, please visit www.chicagoautoshow.com.

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