#HelloHighlights: NYIAS In 12 Photos

I attended the first day of the 2018 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in Midtown Manhattan. Show dates span 30 March to 8 April. Lots to see, and lots of new car smell. My highlights below:

Honk Honk! Hi! :)

Lisa Chau / Via Private Collection

Lisa Chau / Via Private Collection

This year, I started my visit by looking at vintage sports cars. Of course, I was drawn to the green (my favorite color (hat tip: Dartmouth College)) Lamborghini (my first favorite car (specifically the Countach LP500 Quattrovalvole)). This is a 1972 Lamborghini Miura SV. Possibly the world's first supercar, its rear mid-engined two-seat layout has become the standard for modern high-performance sports and supercars.

Lisa Chau / Via Private Collection

Today's Lambos look more like this. Still a fan. Anyone want to give me a ride?

Lisa Chau / Via Private Collection

Second to BMWs, Mercedes are my choice for well-made cars that are great for daily use. In a sea of green Subarus, my then-fiance (now ex) chose to get us a super shiny black (New Yorkers in the woods!) e350 Mercedes all-wheel drive for getting around Hanover, New Hampshire when I was a graduate student. RIP Vox Mobile 2018. He loved it so much, he just got another to drive around Boca Raton (This time in white because Florida). Had he waited to get a new A class sedan next year, it would have a digital display as shown above.

Lisa Chau / Via Private Collection

As a passenger, I like spacious cars. As a driver, I like sleek sports cars. For everyday use, BMWs have remained my favorite automaker that balances both of my preferences. I am loving the i8 series.

Lisa Chau / Via Private Collection

For those who care more about speed than space, there's the Formula E. This type of vehicle is used in a class of auto racing for electric-powered cars only. Conceived in 2011, the series is sanctioned by the FIA.

Lisa Chau / Via Private Collection

Even the NYC Department of Sanitation has joined the electric vehicle trend. The city's mechanical brooms are now more environmental than ever. I approve.

Lisa Chau / Via Private Collection

For dog lovers, Nissan unveiled the "Rogue Dogue" SUV. The vehicle is dog-centric with padded walls in the back, a pet shower and a ramp to facilitate dog entry and exits.

Lisa Chau / Via Private Collection

The auto show is a family friendly event with plenty to see, touch and smell.

Lisa Chau / Via Private Collection

If you have (tall enough) children in tow, they'll probably love Camp Jeep in front of the convention center. Guests join professional 4x4 drivers on an uneven course that concludes with a steep hill climb to showcase Jeep's traction capabilities. I was impressed! Nearby, Camry offers a thrill ride speeding around traffic cones and quick turns.

Lisa Chau / Via Private Collection

Finally, I have to give a nod to Volvo. The car of my childhood. Yes, my parents were all about the American dream: Two kids, several Volvos (yes, at one point, it was a station wagon) and a house with front/back yards. No white picket fence, though. They went with bush hedges instead. In any case, have fun at NYIAS! :) #HelloHighlights