How early in the auto world’s history were models used to sell cars?
The first auto shows which both New York and Chicago debate about being first in 1905 both had models. These were families who were positive about this new mode of transportation. Physicians’ families especially were the first market targets because [doctors] needed reliable transportation in order to make house calls. What’s the oddest story you’ve heard about a model used in a promotion? Many press conferences employed sensational headlines. In the 1990s, John Middleton, then manager of the Pontiac Division at GM, rappelled from the top of Detroit’s Cobo Hall ceiling to a spot on the press conference stage. Mr. Middleton received an hour of training the night prior to do this feat. It made the front page of the Detroit Free Press. For people who don’t attend auto shows and only see the newspaper photos, it doesn’t look like the models do much besides stand near the cars. Then you need to go to a show and see how busy and active they are. They are the voice and the pitch person for ea
