The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) has announced the debut of Electric Avenue, a 37,000 square foot feature on the main floor of the 2010 show.  The new showcase will spotlight electric vehicles and technology of both traditional automakers and innovative entrepreneurs.  The new exhibit has already secured sponsorship by The Dow Chemical Company, which will showcase the importance of technological solutions, such as Dow's lightweighting and advanced battery technology, and its role as a key enabler to changing the game on energy consumption and climate change. 

The exhibit area will feature nearly 20 vehicles as well as symposiums and special events on the adjacent NAIAS stage.

"Electric Avenue is going to be a unique feature of the 2010 NAIAS that will enable us to educate a diverse audience about the long-term viability of the auto industry using a subject that is top of mind globally these days," said NAIAS Chairman Doug Fox. "Each year our show strives to provide an innovative approach to providing excitement.  As one of the primary stops on the global show circuit we are able to draw key media and help exhibitors tell the short- and long-term strategies to a passionate audience of consumers and industry leaders."

In addition to Electric Avenue, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) EcoXperience will also return to NAIAS, allowing Press Week and Public Day visitors the opportunity to experience electric vehicles on a ¼- mile landscaped track in the lower level of Cobo Center.

"We are pleased to join NAIAS to showcase the significance of technology to the automotive industry," said Heinz Haller, executive vice president, Performance Systems, The Dow Chemical Company.  "We believe developing and commercializing next generation battery technology, for example, will help ensure the sustainability of the automotive industry while meeting the nation's energy and environmental goals and generating tens of thousands of green collar jobs in Michigan and throughout the nation."

More details will be released on the Electric Avenue presented by The Dow Chemical Company and the MEDC EcoXperience venues as the 2010 NAIAS approaches.  Updates can be found by periodically checking in at www.naias.com.

About The Dow Chemical Company
The Dow Chemical Company is a diversified chemical company that combines the power of science and technology with the "Human Element" to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company delivers a broad range of products and services to customers in approximately 160 countries, connecting chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. In 2008, Dow had annual sales of $57.4 billion and employed approximately 46,000 people worldwide. The Company has 150 manufacturing sites in 35 countries and produces approximately 3,300 products. On April 1, 2009, Dow acquired Rohm and Haas Company, a global specialty materials company with sales of $10 billion in 2008, 98 manufacturing sites in 30 countries and approximately 15,000 employees worldwide. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted. More information about Dow can be found at www.dow.com.

The North American International Auto Show
Rod Alberts - Executive Director

Entering its 22nd year as an international event, the North American International Auto Show is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world and is one of the largest media events in North America. The NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles, the Paris-based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world. The NAIAS Web site can be accessed at www.naias.com.

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