Automotive and Diesel hosts another ‘absolutely electric’ car expo

The parking lot next to the Automotive and Diesel building featured cars, trucks, eighteen wheeler cabs, motorcycles, a bus and a few construction vehicles on May 4.

The day was cloudy but smiles were bright as attendees walked throughout the expo. Hundreds of vehicles were lined up to showcase their lifted — or lowered — structures, impressive paint jobs, custom horns, lights, and stereos. On display were classic and modern models, Hitachi excavators and Volvo forklifts.

Some of the cars highlighted at the event were a Supra SS 396,  Mazda FD RX-7 from Japan and a highly customized lowered Model A Ford with a steampunk look.

The expo hosted multiple events, including a limbo, burn-out, and two-step rev contest.

The limbo contest invited all motorists with lowered or lower-than-average vehicles to compete.

As multiple cars passed under the bar, some stopped to drop their vehicle even more to the astonishment of viewers.

Automotive and Diesel’s Dean Darrin Marshall spoke with The Northern Light about the second car expo hosted on campus.

Marshall said that to create a safe environment for the burn-out contest, the Anchorage Fire Department arrived to wet the pavement.

Smoke billowed and tires screeched as each contestant showcased their vehicle’s abilities.

The Automotive and Diesel building opened its doors to the public to reveal many older model and brand new vehicles. There was also an entire Princess Cruises bus lifted high above event attendees' heads.

The Dynamometer was also connected to a car and displayed the vehicle’s true capabilities outside of speeding laws. A Dynamometer acts like a treadmill for a car – taking measurements such as top speed and torque – while the vehicle remains stationary.

Quietly weaving throughout the event were RC cars, which could also participate in a mini race track set up for the event. One RC car was a tiny impressive low-rider with pristine air bags and automotive dancing capabilities.

Multiple automotive related vendors set up a tent around the vehicles. Some of these vendors included Snap-On, Alaska’s Premier Auto Salon and Diamond Touch Service.

Raffle tickets were handed out by the event's comedic emcee as people searched for a meal from local food trucks Yeti Dogs, Trendy Eats and Boom Ba Laddy’s.

Marshall said that the turn-out was unexpected and he was grateful for the support from people in the Anchorage and UAA communities.