The 38th edition of the Montreal International Auto Show (MIAS) closed its doors on Sunday night. Over the last 10 days, 205,606 car enthusiasts visited the exhibition. Montreal Auto Show President, Norman Hébert Jr., indicated he was delighted with the outcome. He explained the results saying that historically the Show draws fewer visitors following a successful year in terms of car sales. The 2006 MIAS was very successful and visitors were treated to a truly great exhibition. In 2005, the annual car sales enjoyed an increase of 2.3% over the 2004 figures. In fact, based on preliminary results, 87% of respondents of a visitor survey conducted by Léger Marketing said they were satisfied or very satisfied with what they saw at the Auto Show. Exhibitors relied on creativity to introduce their products with the help of carefully chosen music and professional animators. The Show's Charity Preview evening was a resounding success raising $250,644 for the Foundation of the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), Fondation du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), and the Fondation de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont (HRM). The much-awaited and well-attended event provides car enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to have privileged access to the Show and to mingle with leaders of the industry and special guests. Dining cocktail, jazz musicians, door prizes, a spectacular buffet featuring specialties from the five continents and vintage wines and liqueurs were enjoyed by all distinguished guests. The Montreal International Auto Show's annual blood donor clinic held from Monday to Friday of last week saw 860 people make the ultimate gift to HEMA-QUEBEC, thus exceeding the objective of 800. Each donor received a ticket to visit the 2006 MIAS. Organizers of the Show wish to thank all visitors who made the valuable gift of life.

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