SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Sept. 27, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The Steel Market Development Institute (SMDI), a business unit of the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), is partnering for the second year in a row with the Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) for its annual Fall Rally, to be held next week at the Autobahn Country Club in Joliet, Illinois.
The event includes a mix of approximately 65 of the latest vehicles for media members to test in a variety of driving scenarios – including track, street and off-road. In addition to test-driving, attendees will hear presentations from automakers and other sponsors.
"With the mix of street driving, off-road courses and the track, the Fall Rally is a great chance for journalists to experience how steel-intensive vehicles showcase superior performance," said Jody Hall, vice president, automotive market, SMDI. "Many 2018 model year vehicles are incorporating advanced high-strength steel and the Fall Rally will provide a first drive opportunity for attendees."
SMDI's sponsorship allows members to test drive contenders for the MAMA Family Vehicle of the Year award, the winner of which is announced during MAMA's opening breakfast at the Chicago Auto Show, held annually in February.
AISI serves as the voice of the North American steel industry in the public policy arena and advances the case for steel in the marketplace. AISI also plays a lead role in the development and application of new steels and steelmaking technology. AISI is comprised of 19 member companies, including integrated and electric furnace steelmakers, and approximately 120 associate members who are suppliers to or customers of the steel industry.
SMDI increases and defends the use of steel by developing innovative materials, applications and value-added solutions for customers in the automotive, construction and packaging markets. SMDI automotive investors include: AK Steel Corporation, ArcelorMittal and Nucor Corporation. For more information on SMDI, visit www.autosteel.org or follow @SMDISteel on Twitter.
SOURCE Steel Market Development Institute