On Sunday, May 3, 2015, American Live took place for the second time in the industrial area of Luterbach in the canton of Solothurn. Rain didn't seem to dampen the longing for American V8 power, as visitors arrived early and in large numbers.
Authenticity is celebrated despite the rain
Like last year, the vehicles were once again arranged in groups, allowing visitors to move thematically through America's automotive history. Although it rained almost continuously, the joy of US car fun was clearly not dampened! Two die-hard Jeep fans didn't even let it spoil the traditional Bunsen burner meal.
A coming and going
Due to the size of the site and the large number of participants, it took a good 10 to 20 minutes to walk through all the columns of US cars. When you reached the end, you looked back and discovered new vehicles that had already arrived...
But before they ventured out again, they warmed up briefly in the marquee and satisfied their hunger with a US XXL burger or a traditional Swiss bratwurst. Strengthened, they then set off on another lap and discovered countless new participant vehicles.
Retro feeling also at the parts market
In the marquee, visitors were amazed when original old jukeboxes were set up and well-known rockabilly sounds filled the room from the loudspeakers.
Anyone who liked collecting American souvenirs was sure to be happy at one of the market stalls, with everything from car models to license plates.
Chrome chrome chrome
In contrast to the Europeans, who often opted for simplicity in the design of the bodywork, the Americans often offered lavishly applied chrome ornamentation, which not only changed with model changes but actually brought out new details every year. This variety could be admired at American Live and the camera was pulled out again for almost every chrome part.
In general, the Americans of the time offered much more detail than the Europeans, so it was easy to lose minutes before moving on to the next vehicle. The enthusiasm of the owners to live and celebrate the American spirit could be felt in almost every vehicle, but in some it was obvious. From the well-known Pontiac Trans-Am with eagle livery...
...to the real-looking highway Patrol Mustang of modern times:
Here's to a sunny 2016
We tried to document this diversity in Luterbach despite the rain and can actually recommend the event to every classic car fan. Of course, some people didn't make it to the event due to the bad weather, but those who stayed at home can make a note of the date for the next American Live 2016? However, it is not yet known. But as soon as the date is set, we will of course announce it.
