On July 25, 2010, the 32nd annual Concours d’Elegance of America automotive exhibition is returning to Meadow Brook Hall.

Although Concours d’Elegance is considered to be one of the world’s most prestigious classic automobile and motorcycle exhibitions, the committee running Concours wants success not only for the exhibition, but success and awareness to the Michigan area as well.

“The Detroit automotive industry isn’t dead. The great designers are still here. The companies are still here,” Chairman of Car Selection Larry Moss said. “More importantly, the people that made the car industry great are still here.”

Over 200 vehicles are being showcased, ranging from the 1915 Mercer Raceabout to the fastest production car to date, the Bugatti Veyron, with 1,001 horsepower and an estimated cost of $1.3 million.

One particular interest is the Motorama concept car, the 1955 Chevrolet Biscayne, which has only been displayed in its unrestored condition.  Collector Joe Bortz, known for his private collection of “dream cars,” rescued the Biscayne from the Warhoops salvage yard in Sterling Heights, Michigan. 

This year’s exhibition will be making automotive history with the unveiling of the fully restored Biscayne here in Michigan at Oakland University.

Along with the Biscayne, four other concept cars from the 1950’s Motorama event and Bortz’ private collection will be on display.

While most of the people on the board may drive some of the most exotic and vintage rides, they surprisingly maintain approachable personalities and volunteer their time and energy for their passion. 

“We are a blue-collar state. We’re workers. The guys on the Meadowbrook committee, including myself, are just a bunch of car guys,” Moss said, “We don’t get paid for this. We just want to put on a great car show and make people happy.”

Not only an established car exhibition, the Concours d’Elegance serves as the single largest fundraiser to support the preservation of “America’s Castle,” Oakland University’s Meadow Brook Hall. The Concours has raised over $6 million towards the former residence of Matilda Dodge Wilson, widow of auto pioneer John Dodge.

Highlights of the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance include Motorama, drag,  speedsters, space-age sport coupes, super cars, celebrity owner, vintage and European cars.

“We want to pass around to world, that the fact that Michigan is still the automobile capital of the world,” Moss said.

The 32nd Annual Concours d’Elegance of America will open to the public on July 23rd 2010 from 10 am to 4 pm on the grounds of Meadow Brook Hall. 

Admission requires tickets, which can be purchased in advance online or at the gate on the day of the event for $25. Children ages 12 and under can enter for free. VIP tickets are also available for $125.