Economy & Tech

Japan Mobility Show: Soar into the Future With Flying Cars and Next-Gen EVs

"Japan is home to remarkable technologies, and we aim to showcase Japan's vision for the world." — Akio Toyoda on the rebranding of Japan Mobility Show.

Published

6 months ago

October 26, 2023

The Sankei Shimbun

Toyota's President Koji Sato at a press briefing at Tokyo Big Sight on October 25. (©Sankei by Shigetaka Doi)

The Japan Mobility Show held a press preview at Tokyo Big Sight in Koto Ward on October 25, one day ahead of the opening ceremony. Formerly known as the Tokyo Motor Show, the event showcases the latest advancements in automotive technology and offers a glimpse into the future of mobility.

*A 1/5 scale model of Suzuki's flying car. October 25, Tokyo Big Sight. (©Sankei by Yukuto Hagihara)*

EVs Take Center Stage

With the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs), both local and international automakers including industry leaders like Toyota Motor Corporation are unveiling their new EV concepts. The show also highlights emerging technologies such as flying cars and driverless taxis.

*Mazda's MAZDA ICONIC SP compact sports car concept at Tokyo Big Sight. (©Sankei by Yukuto Hagihara)*

In the face of stiff competition from cheaper EVs made in China, Japanese companies have faced criticism for lagging behind. The Japan Mobility Show serves as a crucial platform for Japanese manufacturers to prove their potential through a focus on quality and innovation.

*Sony Honda Mobility Inc's AFEELA. (©Sankei by Yukuto Hagihara)*

Notable highlights at the event include Toyota's "wise" EV concept featuring augmented reality technology, Nissan's "Hyper" concept series, Honda's driverless taxi, and Suzuki's ambitious foray into flying cars.

*Nissan's Hyper Force concept car. (©Sankei by Kanata Iwasaki)*

*Honda CEO Toshihiro Mibe rides in the driverless EV taxi Cruise Origin. (©Sankei by Yukuto Hagihara)*

Record Participation

While the auto show usually takes place every two years, it had a four-year hiatus due to the pandemic. This time, the event boasts the participation of 475 companies, ranging from parts manufacturers to startups.

*Daihatsu's new EV concept. (©Sankei by Kanata Iwasaki)*

*Suzuki Motor's CEO Toshihiro Suzuki and four-legged vehicle MOQBA. (©Sankei by Yukuto Hagihara)*

After the opening ceremony on October 26, the show will be open to the general public from October 28 to November 5. Akio Toyoda, who serves as the Chairman of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association and Toyota, has set a target of attracting around one million visitors to the show.