The third week of January promises an exciting series of events in Detroit as the 2008 North American Auto Show opens. According to the Auto Channel, the occasion will take place at Cobo Center from January 16-17 from 7a.m. to 9 p.m. You wouldn't miss this for the world… definitely!

Here are the scheduled events during the NAIAS 2008 Industry Preview courtesy of my source:

• 15th Annual AutoWeek Design Forum - Exploring the theme "Designed for Fun" the daylong forum celebrates design as the ultimate differentiating factor between products.  Attracting more than 70 attendees, the forum also will feature the 2008 Editor's Choice Awards and attendees will tour the show floor.  The forum will be held in Cobo
• Center's Riverview Ballroom on Wednesday, Jan. 16 from 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Jesse James of the Discovery Channel's Monster Garage and owner of West Coast Choppers will be the keynote speaker.
• Inforum's Annual Auto Show Breakfast - Themed "Beyond Green: Unraveling Sustainability Mystique," the annual breakfast will focus on the various environmentally friendly auto choices that are beginning to emerge in the market.  The breakfast will take place on Thursday, Jan. 17 at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center from 7:30 a.m. - 9 a.m.

"Each year we look forward to hosting this exclusive opportunity for industry professionals to get a preview of the many fantastic attractions at the NAIAS," said Carl Galeana, the senior co-chairman for the NAIAS 2008. "Industry Preview provides a unique occasion for industry insiders to network, attend informative special events on design and automotive trends, and get a sneak peek of the show before it opens to the public."