Automakers showcased their eco-friendly hybrids, electric vehicles and other green technologies as the Tokyo Motor Show got under way Wednesday in the city of Chiba, but what with the global economic slump, many manufacturers were conspicuous no-shows.
The 41st Tokyo Motor Show, which opened to the media ahead of the official start Saturday, features 261 cars and motorcycles, including 39 making their world debut at the Makuhari Messe convention center. The show runs until Nov. 4.
But this year, the global economic downturn has taken a toll on the biennial event, and many big-name European and U.S. carmakers are absent.