California International Auto Show opening in Anaheim

The 2003 model-year car show circuit kicks off in Anaheim this evening with the opening of the California International Auto Show.

The event, which features hundreds of new cars and trucks, concept vehicles and a special design display, runs through Sunday at the Anaheim Convention Center.

As the first show of the season, it gives car shoppers and automotive buffs a chance to check out all the latest vehicles, available now and in coming months at local dealerships, without sales pressure.

The show, of which the Los Angeles Times is a sponsor, also highlights unconventional vehicles such as the new Segway Human Transporter, a self-balancing, two-wheel stand-up “scooter” designed to operate in pedestrian environments.

Global Electric Motors, a DaimlerChrysler unit, will display its GEM neighborhood electric vehicles. And Super Street Magazine will host a display of so-called tuner cars--conventional compact cars, usually imports, that are heavily modified with aftermarket performance and appearance equipment.

There’s also a special display of custom vehicles built by Long Beach-based motorcycle builder Jesse James for Discovery Channel’s “Monster Garage.”

Show hours are 4 to 10 p.m. today; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.

General admission is $9, $5 for seniors age 62 and over, and $4 for children ages 7-12. Children under 7 are admitted free. Advance tickets, discount coupons and additional information are available online at www.caautoshow.com.

More events, G-2.