Atlanta: American HQ for a lot of car companies?

[Guest donaltopablo]

Although this article isn't specifically about this, it is interesting to know that Saab, Porsche, and Lotus' NA HQ are all here in Atlanta. I believe BMW also has significant operations here. Also, Panoz is in the metro area (non car Enthusiasts may not be familar with that name, although it is growing and one of few hand built American cars). Obviously, we're not Detriot, but I wonder how we compare behind Detriot in terms of hosing automotive operations (non mfging anyway).

Atlanta agency to promote Lotus Cars

By LEON STAFFORD

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

BrandwarePR, an Atlanta public relations agency, will be working in the fast lane with its latest client.

The agency has been chosen as the PR firm of record for Lotus Cars USA, the British company whose North American headquarters is in Atlanta.

"Lotus felt strongly about having local representation," said Elke Martin, Brandware's managing director. "It's a matter of efficiency because they like to have face-to-face meetings."

One of Brandware's first assignments was publicizing Lotus' new Elise at last week's Greater Los Angeles Auto Show.

"Nothing like looking at new cars," Martin said.

Lotus is planning to expand its offerings in the United States with the introduction of the Elise, Martin said. The Elise is expected to be one of the fastest production cars in the U.S. market, according to Martin.

Brandware also represents Aprilia USA motorcycles. The PR firm, founded in 2000, specializes in representing the automotive industry.

"There are not too many agencies that do this kind of work," Martin said. "A lot of the bigger agencies have practices devoted to the automotive segment, but there are only a few small agencies that do this work. We all know each other."

While the majority of the industry is covered from Detroit, she said Atlanta is not a bad place to be.

In addition to being the North American home for Lotus and Aprilia, metro Atlanta is also the headquarters on this side of the Atlantic for Porsche, Saab and Triumph motorcycles.

"I don't think a lot of people are aware that we have so many manufacturers based here," Martin said.