Vancouver International Auto Show shifts to a new setting The most important event for the auto industry in B.C. is gearing up for another year as the 2011 Vancouver International Auto Show embarks on its ninth decade of showcasing the latest models from the worlds' leading manufacturers. The Vancouver Auto Show began 91 years ago and is the largest trade and consumer event in British Columbia. Attendance at the 2010 Auto Show was over 80,777. Electric Vehicles (EVs) are at the forefront of this year's show with several manufacturers showcasing their latest production-ready models. A BC Hydro display will educate show visitors on EV technology and how the current infrastructure will evolve to accommodate the emergence of a new generation of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Over the course of the six-day event, tens of thousands of enthusiasts can enjoy an experience designed to be family-friendly with manufacturer showcases, special feature vehicles and the latest products and accessories. The Dream Car Lottery returns for a second year with a chance to win a Mercedes Benz SL 550 Convertible worth over $145,000 and proceeds going to help charities across the province, including Special Olympics B.C. The 2011 Vancouver International Auto Show is presented by the New Car Dealers Association of BC and runs Tuesday, March 29 to Sunday, April 3 at the Vancouver Convention Centre West. For show info: www.VancouverInternationalAutoShow.com 5 GEORGETOWN/ACTON · WHEELS.CA · March 24 2011 The Vancouver International Auto Show begins Tuesday, March 29. Last year's show drew more than 80,000 visitors. Lincoln durability highest among all brands in 2011 Lincoln received the highest score for longterm durability among all vehicle brands in the annual J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS). The Lincoln MKZ is the second-highest performing model in long-term durability in the entire study. In total, Ford had nine vehicles ranking in the top three of their respective segments. They include Ford Edge, Ford Explorer Sport Trac, Ford Taurus, Ford F-150 and Ford Ranger. The study asked owners about problems they have experienced in the past 12 months with their three-year-old vehicles, (i.e., for the 2011 study, 2008 model-year cars and trucks were surveyed). Survey respondents were asked to indicate any problems they experienced with their vehicle in the past 12 months, choosing from a list of more than 200 issues in eight diverse categories. The study also shows a strong link between reliability and purchase. Nearly two-thirds (63 per cent) of new-vehicle buyers say reliability /durability is one of the most important factors in choosing a new vehicle. Additionally, the study found that fuel economy is among the top 10 purchase considerations. --Metroland Media Carguide Magazine