Tokyo Motor Show to Feature Half the Number of Exhibitors
The Tokyo Motor Show, a major biennial auto event, will have a significantly reduced number of exhibitors due to the industry slump. In contrast to the previous event in 2007, which featured 241 companies from 12 economies, this year's show will have around 122 companies from nine economies. The withdrawal of major US and European automakers, including the "Big Three" US firms, German giants Volkswagen AG and BMW AG, and Daimler AG's Mercedes-Benz division, has significantly impacted the show's lineup.
Key Takeaways:
- The Tokyo Motor Show will have approximately 122 exhibitors from nine economies, a significant reduction from the 241 companies from 12 economies in 2007.
- Many US and European auto firms, including the "Big Three" US automakers and German giants Volkswagen AG and BMW AG, have withdrawn their participation to reduce expenses amid tough business conditions.
- Japan's four major truck makers, including Toyota Motor Corp. and Nissan Motor Co., have also withdrawn their participation due to plummeting sales.
- The event will be shorter by four days, with 13 days from Oct. 23 to Nov. 4, and the venue floor space will be nearly halved to 22,594 square meters.
- Porsche AG, Ferrari S.p.A, and Korean carmaker Hyundai Motor Co. will attend the event, despite the thinning list of exhibitors.
- Junior high school students will be allowed to enter the event for free, a change from the previous policy limiting free entry to elementary school students.
Statistics:
- 122 companies from nine economies are registered for this year's Tokyo Motor Show, compared to 241 companies from 12 economies in 2007.
- The number of exhibitors has decreased by 49.4% from the previous event.
- Venue floor space will be reduced from 43,348 square meters to 22,594 square meters.
Sources:
- Kyodo News International, Tokyo, March 24, 2009.
- Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association.
- The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.