The evolution of the Autoshow Model

If you have never been to an auto show, you could be forgiven for thinking that every woman there is either a Japanese cosplay girl or a booty-ho. There is a whole other side to many of the auto show babes: the role of spokesperson.

Margery Krevsky, author of Sirens of Chrome: The Enduring Allure of Auto Show Models, was recently profiled in the Detroit Free Press. She is credited with creating the idea that the models need to be able to walk and talk, capable of speaking about every aspect of the car and car company they are shilling for.

This may also come as a surprise to any auto show attendee who has tried to get the attention of a doe-eyed honey at the Alfa Romeo stand.

But stray away from the Italian automakers, and you find beautiful women, often dressed down, perfectly capable of discussing engine choice and off-road capabilities. This is where Krevsky comes in. Her Detroit-based company, Productions Plus, spends weeks training their models on the nuances of a vehicle. The models also work with the manufacturers that hire them "That was a revolutionary idea," Krevsky told the newspaper in an interview.

"It really made sense to talk torque, horsepower, V-6 engine and V-8 engine ... to compare the BMW to the Mercedes."

300 of Krevsky's models represent brands owned by Toyota, Nissan, and Honda, as well as Porsche, Mitsubishi, and the Chevrolet Racing Team. And they aren't just women. She employs about 75 men to answer questions, as well.

The importance of Krevsky's role, and her innovative approach to car sales, is not lost on the dealer level. As one Michigan dealer said, "The auto show's models, who function as product specialists and narrators, are essential."

As product specialists, they also have to dress the part of their company. At Nissan, this means khaki pants, gym shoes, and a golf shirt with the company logo. But not everyone can be dressed down at the auto show, Krevsky explains.

"I think people like glamour. I don't think people want to come in and see a boring show."

"Sirens of Chrome" is available from Momentum Books for $24.95.