Manoli Katakis 
Whether you buy into it or not, the novel coronavirus has managed to create mayhem and fear all over the world. Cities have been quarantined, hospitals are at capacity, and mass events have been outright canceled. The Swiss government even decreed an emergency that led to the cancelation of the 2020 Geneva Motor Show. And when it comes to automotive events, both for the industry and enthusiasts, that seemed to just be the beginning. The latest event to fall victim to the coronavirus epidemic is the 2020 LX Spring Fest. You may recall the event poster that depicted a Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat with a massive hood scoop similar to that of the mighty Challenger SRT Demon.
Below is a statement from the 2020 LX Spring Fest event staff:
Today (March 6, 2020) we have made the very tough decision to postpone Spring Fest 15, which was scheduled for March 20-21, 2020. Due to the current uncertain circumstances and the nature of the event, which draws enthusiasts who travel from 25 states and several countries, it is best that we reschedule for another date.
Thanks for understanding.
That’s not all. On the industry side, General Motors has gone as far as to cancel all media events through early April due to coronavirus concerns. While these vehicles are not within the scope of coverage of MC&T, they were the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Buick Encore GX, Cadillac CT4, and Cadillac CT5. Meanwhile, the highly anticipated Hummer EV reveal scheduled for May 20th is under review. If the epidemic loses steam, it will likely carry forward. If not, expect the reveal event to be pushed back. Employee travel for all Detroit Three automakers has otherwise been restricted, save for extreme circumstances.
Lastly, the 2020 New York International Auto Show appears on the brink of cancelation. While an email blast from the auto show organizes claims that the show will go on, citing theatrical safeguards such as hand sanitizer stations, New York state governor Andrew Cuomo has declared a State of Emergency. This could prelude the cancelation of the April auto show.
Should things carry on, the 2020 New York Auto Show is expected to show off at least one of the upcoming Ford Bronco sport utility vehicles, be it the Jeep Wrangler-rivaling 4×4 or the Ford Escape-based Bronco Sport. For the Mopar enthusiasts, the 2021 Dodge Durango Hellcat has been rumored to make its debut, which would usher in the fastest and most powerful three-row utility vehicle in the world. For GM, Cadillac will likely have its Lyriq electric vehicle on display, as well as some of its Ultium battery packs that it revealed earlier this week. Otherwise, the roadshow of its all-new T1 SUVs are expected to take the spotlight.
