ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich., Dec. 23, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Auto Show season is officially in full swing, and results from the Foresight Research Los Angeles Auto Show research report reveal that the shows are a lot more than an entertainment venue for gearheads and car buffs. In fact, it is a life-sized, animated brochure for new car and truck buyers.

According to the Los Angeles Auto Show study, experts at Foresight Research (www.foresightresearch.com) say that over one-quarter of the people who went to the Los Angeles show last year purchased a car since then. Steve Bruyn, CEO of Foresight, said, "Only 11% of the people driving down the road buy a car in any given year, so the Los Angeles Auto Show visitors are more than twice as likely to purchase, and they are using the auto show as a place to discover and shop."

In addition to new car purchasers, Foresight surveys Intenders (people intending to buy cars in the next 12 months). "Intenders make up a much bigger part of the auto show visitors than they did last year," said Bruyn. "The Los Angeles Auto Show enjoyed visits from one-third of the Intenders in the Los Angeles market, up from one-quarter in 2012. The Miami Auto Show, about a month earlier than L.A., showed the same kind of lift."

"We'll be monitoring the Intender measurement across 25 shows before the season is over, but so far this season, auto shows are proving to be a really good place for marketers to find serious shoppers," Bruyn said. "Next stop is the Detroit Auto Show. We'll see how that show compares."

About Foresight Research

Foresight Research specializes in syndicated and custom studies focusing on the key influencers of purchase decisions in automotive and marine industries. Foresight Research publishes 10-15 syndicated reports that provide actionable information, strategies and best practices to help auto companies, auto dealerships, auto show promoters, and marine companies succeed and grow.