Grand Traverse Resort & Spa, Traverse City, Michigan. For more than 40 years, the top leaders in the automotive and related industries have convened in Traverse City each August to outline their visions and planning for the future at the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) Management Briefing Seminars.  This year, CAR anticipates a greater focus on the relationships between all stakeholders, including the federal government.

Initial conference planning by the CAR team of researchers and conference managers is closely attuned to the industry and the economy as a whole. The realities of today dictate leaner budgets and staffing, and the 2009 program has been consolidated into a four-day event to reflect this truth.  Formal sessions will take place Tuesday, August 4-Friday, August 7.  Informal, optional sessions are under consideration for Monday, August 3. 

Registration for this year's event will open April 1, 2009.  Registration and session content information will be sent out prior to that date.  CAR is in the process of inviting speakers, updating the website and continually working to increase the relevance and value to attendees.