Chevy To Sponsor The Woodward Dream Cruise

DETROIT (WWJ) After being on the sidelines for two years, General Motors is returning to the Woodward Dream Cruise in a big way.

"Chevrolet has stepped up to be our presenting sponsor for the Woodward Dream Cruise as part of a multi year partnership," said Dream Cruise President Greg Rassel, in an announcement at GM's Wintergarden.

"Chevrolet's participation allows the Dream Cruise to continue on as a safe, family event," said Rassell.

The three year deal cost GM more than a million dollars, money that Dream Cruise organizers needed, after several years when companies didn't have the resources to help out.

GM had been a part of the Cruise since the events beginnings.   But financial issues in recent years had caused them to back away.

When GM and Dream Cruise organizers scheduled a joint press conference, rumors started that Chevy was going to replace the Motor City Casino as the main sponsor of the event.  Both parties declined to confirm those reports, before today's announcement.

The official name of the cruise will now be, "Woodward Dream Cruise, Presented by Chevrolet."

"Chevrolet's sponsorship of the Woodward Dream Cruise helps to Celebrate Chevy's 100 year history here in Detroit," said Chevrolet marketing director Rick Scheidt.

Chevy plans a series of displays in the Birmingham area.  They promise to bring historic products, as well as current vehicles, including the electric Chevy Volt.

This will not prevent other auto companies from being involved in the Dream Cruise.  With the improving economy, Chrysler and Ford are also expected to have some of their vehicles at the cruise.

Dream Cruise organizers expect 1.5 million visitors to this years event, which is scheduled for Saturday, August 20th.