Swag taken at Detroit auto show

Donna Terek of the Detroit News writes about all of the freebies available to the auto journalists covering the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Terek writes, “The best packaging of a tiny flash drive was Fiat’s espresso cup and saucer in a snazzy box.

“And that was a fitting gift as espresso was ubiquitous this year. Every other automaker set up a coffee bar to give frazzled journalists a much-needed energy boost.

“Up in the Michelin Media Rooms, journalists were treated to free tote bags and trophy-sized Michelin Man bobble heads, all-day beverages and box lunches and refreshing chair massages by students from Irene’s Myomassology Institute in Southfield. At one point, a mob formed around a woman giving away Powermat wireless charging stations for cell phones.

“At lunchtime, the crowd lined up for a huge sandwich buffet, but it couldn’t compare to the gourmet meal served at the Audi Cafe down on the show floor.

“‘This is the best food at the auto show. I love the chef,’ cooed Tomsic, as he tucked into a giant prawn appetizer followed by beef tenderloin with red wine reduction.”