Every two years, Japan hosts a wild, exciting international auto show overflowing with tiny, micro cars, daring concepts, and leading-edge technology. The Tokyo show has its own character, with a rabid press core, anime-fashioned female models, video game arcade, and general flurry of activity.
True to form, the 2003 event has carried on all the proud traditions, though where the flavor was decidedly wacky in 2001, this year's dominating theme is hybrid drivetrains. From luxury SUVs to practically pocket-sized cars, hybrid drivetrains shown here exploring all boundaries of the automotive market. Most applications focus on the practical, such as chasing big fuel economy numbers, or using the packaging efficiencies to explore new vehicle type. But, there are a few concepts exploring the fun side of hybrids, using the system to deliver significantly more power.
Sony again has provided the gaming entertainment, as the upcoming Gran Turismo 4 title further closes the gap between virtual reality and true reality. Our contingent of sushi-enabled editors have had little time for games as they comb the show floor, meeting with the development teams, and even take some first drives for reporting online and in future issues of the magazine.
Enjoy this look at the motoring future.
Click on images to enlarge.