Celebrating Automotive Heritage: Detroit Concours Launches Initiative to Recognize Industry Contributors

This September, automotive enthusiasts and industry professionals will gather in Michigan for one of the year’s most prestigious car celebrations. The Detroit Concours d’Elegance, hosting world-class vehicles and showcasing the rich history of American automotive culture, is rolling out a special initiative to pay tribute to those whose work has shaped the industry.

‘Powered by Detroit’: A Tribute to Unsung Heroes

Starting immediately through mid-August, the campaign invites automotive workers and professionals to share their stories. Employees across the industry are encouraged to submit photographs featuring themselves alongside their prized collector vehicles. These submissions will be transformed into a gallery exhibition, debuting during the September festivities on the 22nd and 23rd.

“From factory floors to design departments, machine shops to executive offices—the backbone of American automotive excellence has been built by Detroit’s workforce,” explained Hagerty’s Vice Chairman of the Concours Group. “Many of these individuals remain behind the scenes, yet their fingerprints are on every classic car in museums and competition fields globally. This year, we’re amplifying their recognition.”

Vehicle owners interested in more prominent recognition can also apply to have their automobiles featured in a dedicated showcase. Manufacturer-owned heritage vehicles will receive special status, with a dedicated exhibition class on Saturday of the event.

Event Highlights and Details

The two-day celebration combines family activities and serious automotive appreciation. Friday’s programming, known as Cars & Community, welcomes visitors of all ages with curated displays from regional car clubs, children’s activities through the Future Drivers Club, and a nostalgic RADwood-era vehicle showcase.

Saturday’s main event brings together 150 historically significant automobiles across multiple categories. Highlights include vehicles from various eras and manufacturers, with special emphasis on '57 Heaven (classic American cars), Mopar Magic, and Ferraris spanning the 1960s. The Concours of America All Stars category will spotlight award-winning vehicles from 1979 through 2021.

Throughout the day, attendees can participate in complimentary Hagerty Ride & Drives, witness the awards ceremony, and experience exclusive automotive entertainment. Ticketed admission applies to both days, though children under 16 receive complimentary entry. Early-entry and Club Detroit members gain access beginning at 9 a.m.

Leadership and Judging Standards

Ed Welburn, whose 44-year tenure with General Motors’ design division established him as a cornerstone figure in automotive aesthetics, will serve as Chief Judge. His extensive background in vehicle design and team leadership brings heightened expertise to the evaluation process, ensuring the Detroit Concours maintains standards consistent with the world’s elite automotive competitions.

Logistics and Access

Detroit Three employees and retirees receive special pricing on admission tickets. Photo submissions and vehicle applications are available through the official platform. Ticket availability for both Friday and Saturday can be secured online, with flexible options for early-entry participants and club members.

The Detroit Concours d’Elegance remains rooted in over four decades of tradition, tracing its heritage back to 1979 and the historic Meadow Brook venue. For complete details, visit the official event website.

About the Event Organizer

Hagerty, Inc., a publicly traded automotive lifestyle company, operates as a premier authority in specialty vehicle insurance, car valuation analytics, auction services, and automotive entertainment. The organization serves approximately 69 million American car enthusiasts and maintains operations across North America and the United Kingdom through its Hagerty Drivers Club community, which includes 750,000 active members dedicated to car culture preservation and advancement.