2011 Tokyo Motor Show Promises to Impress With Massive Growth, 176 Exhibitors

The Tokyo Motor Show, held only once every two years, marks its return for 2011. After the nation suffered severe destruction from earthquake and tsunami, Japan intends to show the world the resilience of Japanese industry and manufacturing. Moreover, as previous shows were held at Makuhari Messe, a convention center located in the Mihami-ku ward of Chiba City just outside Tokyo, the Tokyo Big Sight in Ariake, Koto-ku, marks the return of the Tokyo Motor Show to the city of Tokyo for the first time in 24 years.

Held from December 2 to December 11, the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011 will feature a total of 176 exhibitors from 12 different countries, which is a significant 36 percent increase than the previous 2009 Motor Show’s 129 exhibitors. Moreover, exhibition space has grown from 35,151 sq. meters from 21,823 sq. meters of 2009, a whopping 61 percent increase. Of note, all 14 of Japan’s automakers will be exhibiting, with 20 foreign brands, a big increase from just 9 foreign brands at the last show.

As Asia is experiencing a rapidly growing China and India market, there has been a sharp spike in interest for motor shows held in Beijing, Shanghai, and New Delhi. However, as a symbol of Japan’s technological powerhouse, the city of Tokyo strives to remain the foremost leader and demonstrator in technological innovation.

The theme of this year’s Tokyo Motor Show is “SMART MOBILITY CITY 2011.” The project focuses its attention to “next-generation automobiles and the social systems with which they interact,” highlighting the role of innovators of the car industry as they tackle the growing concerns over matters of global environment and energy conservation.

Notable debuts at this year’s show include the Toyota FT-86, Subaru BRZ and Mazda Takeri Concept. See AutoGuide’s complete 2011 Tokyo Motor Show preview here, with coverage starting November 30th.