After a week of media, industry and charity previews, the North American International Auto show is opening up to the public Saturday.

This year's auto show features the unveiling of 59 new cars and 500 displays. The public portion of the event runs at Detroit's newly renovated Cobo Center from Jan.19-27.

The Ram 1500 was named North American Truck/Utility of the Year and the Cadillac ATS won North American Car of the Year during the media preview.

But it’s the bright lights and show models that divert most people's eyes at the main event.

“What you see when you come is the 20 to 25 global auto manufacturer's bringing their best products here to Detroit," says Reid Bigland, CEO of Chrysler Canada and Dodge brand.

Products with trademark grills, sleek lines and intriguing new design elements take centre stage. Some of the show-stoppers this year are the Corvette Stingray, the Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang.

The Jaguar and Maserati are prominently displayed for performance car lovers.

Organizers say the event is geared for all ages. NFL star Barry Sanders will be signing autographs at the show Saturday in the GMC display from 12 p.m. until 2pm. There are also two parades daily at 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m., featuring special surprises from the Parade Company.

There’s an official NAIAS app for smart phone users to view news and information. It features a virtual show floor map and breaking automotive news.

Transit Windsor is encouraging riders to take advantage of the auto show express package for door-to-door service to the Cobo. It is $19 per person for a round trip bus pass and NAIAS admission ticket. If you wish to purchase tunnel bus tickets only, the cost is $8 roundtrip or $4 for one-way travel.

Express packages are sold daily at the Windsor International Transit Terminal from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. and at Transit Centre, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. They can also be purchased at the Adie Knox Herman Recreation Complex, Forest Glade Community Centre, Gino and Liz Marcus Community Complex, Optimist Community Centre, and South Windsor Recreation Complex.  

The auto show doors open at 9 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. daily. Tickets are $12 US for adults and $6 US for seniors and kids. You can purchase tickets at the Cobo or online here: http://t.co/Eyu1d4C0.