For the first time in years, the start of the North American International Auto Show was a day for looking ahead with hope.
In an event overshadowed in recent years by the financial worries of Detroit's automakers, 2010 finally offered a break with the past.
Instead of plants closing, automakers talked about the production they're adding back for hot-selling models. Instead of talking about whole brands that must be pared or repaired, General Motors and Ford vowed a blitz of competitive vehicles, many with electric power.
And instead of concerns about Washington viewing Detroit with disdain, Democratic leaders in the U.S. House came to compliment the industry in person.
"This is about who we are as a country and how we grow our economy," said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who spent seven hours touring the show and talking with Michigan officials. "What we are seeing here today is a renaissance."
Ed Whitacre, GM's new chief executive, showed lawmakers around the Chevrolet Volt and told Pelosi that GM would give taxpayers a healthy return on their investment.
"We're going to make you proud," he said.
