The Detroit Auto Show and Northville Concours d’Elegance Partner with C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital to Create “Charity Preview Junior” to Support Young Patients
DETROIT, MI – (October 14, 2025) – The Detroit Auto Show and the Northville Concours d’Elegance are launching a new philanthropic tradition Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview Junior Presented by the Northville Concours d’Elegance, a special initiative that will deliver 20 mini ride-on Power Wheels vehicles to support young patients at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital on Friday, January 9, 2026.
The effort extends the legacy of the Detroit Auto Show’s iconic Charity Preview (Friday, January 16, 2026) by creating an experience that brings comfort, confidence, and joy to children far beyond a single night. Many of the Power Wheels are being donated by brand partners who will be displaying at the 2026 Detroit Auto Show, January 14–25 at Huntington Place.
The vehicles will remain at the hospital year-round. More than toys, they will offer moments of relief and courage for patients facing intimidating procedures—sometimes even allowing children to “drive” themselves to surgery. The January 9 celebration at Mott will feature a Charity Preview–style program for children and families with music, food, and remarks from hospital and event leaders, underscoring the Auto Show’s role as a community partner committed to creating lasting impact.
“At Mott, we know that healing goes beyond medicine — it’s also about joy, comfort, and moments of hope,” said Luanne Ewald, Chief Operating Officer, C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. “Thanks to the generosity of the Detroit Auto Show and the Northville Concours d’Elegance, these Power Wheels will transform what can be some of the most intimidating experiences for our patients into opportunities for courage and smiles. We’re grateful for this partnership that reminds our children they are strong, they are brave, and even in the hospital, they can still dream big.”
Organizers emphasized that Charity Preview Junior reflects a broader mission to unite the industry around meaningful service.
“Charity Preview has always been about more than one night — it’s about giving back in ways that resonate throughout the year,” said Sam Klemet, Executive Director of the Detroit Auto Show. “With Charity Preview Junior, we’re creating moments of hope and joy for children who need it most, while bringing our brand partners together to make a meaningful difference.”
“Our event is about celebrating automotive heritage, but it’s equally about investing in people,” said David Kibbey, Chairman of the Northville Concours d’Elegance. “Through Charity Preview Junior, we’re channeling our shared passion for cars into something much bigger — an opportunity to brighten the lives of children and their families.”
Charity Preview Junior serves as a prelude to the Detroit Auto Show’s signature philanthropic event, Charity Preview, on Friday, January 16, 2026. Charity Preview is Presented by Auto Hauler Exchange, and WXYZ-TV Channel 7 is the Official Television Partner of the event. Since its inception, Charity Preview has raised more than $125 million to benefit six vital children’s charities across Southeastern Michigan: Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan, The Children’s Center, The Children’s Foundation, Detroit Auto Dealers Association Charitable Foundation Fund (a fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan), Detroit PAL, and University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital.
Together, these events underscore the Auto Show’s commitment to ensuring that the excitement of mobility is matched by a lasting investment in the community, supporting children and families across the region.
For more information, visit www.detroitautoshow.com.
DATES FOR THE 2026 DETROIT AUTO SHOW:
- The Gallery, Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026
- Media and Industry Days – including Mobility Global Forum, AutoMobili-D and media events – Wednesday, Jan. 14 and Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026
- Charity Preview, Friday, Jan. 16, 2026
- Public Show, Saturday, Jan. 17 through Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026
ABOUT THE DETROIT AUTO SHOW
The 2026 Detroit Auto Show returns January 14–25, showcasing the latest in automotive design, technology, and innovation. As one of the most influential auto events in the world, the show is a dynamic stage for global mobility trends, groundbreaking vehicles, and immersive brand experiences. From hands-on activations to next-gen product reveals, the Detroit Auto Show invites attendees to experience the future of mobility in the heart of the Motor City.
