12-3-11 Tokyo Motor Show 2011

Every two years, the Tokyo Motor Show (TMS) displays the latest in cutting edge design and technology in the automotive industry. However in recent years, with the current global economic situation, the TMS has undergone a few changes. Some good, some....well....

One major change, the venue. In years past, the single floor and enormous acreage of Makuhari Messe in Chiba provided adequate space for vendors, dealers and exhibits. But in 2009, it was clear that many companies had pulled out from the TMS and a lot of the space was vacant. An unsettling sight. So this year, the venue was relocated to Tokyo Big Sight. Seems like the right thing to do as it's, well... in Tokyo. 

West Hall view from 2nd level

Spread out over multiple floors and buildings, this new venue certainly made things tricky when trying to find certain exhibits. A very interesting building though, without a doubt.

As for the "motor" at the TMS, well, there is no shortage of cool automobiles. The theme of this particular TMS was "Mobility". With the aging population growing in Japan, many companies displayed cars with easy access and various safety features (electronic or hydraulic lifting seating and proximity sensors). Very futuristic and sometimes strange but still fun to see.

From commuter to exotic to mind-bending concept, the TMS did not disappoint:

The "Ordinary"

The "Extraordinary"

The "Future"

Motorcycles, as well

The ladies of TMS are always popular

The Tokyo Motor Show wraps up on December 11th and will return in 2013. As a lover of cars, it's a long two years but well woth the wait. Here's to hoping that many companies return. It's strange to go to a car show and not see a single American made car or motorcycle. Thank you Japan and Europe for your contribution to my car fix.

Thanks for stopping by. See you next week!

Mike