The 41st Tokyo Motor Show has opened to the press, so reports are now starting to appear. The show is expected to be a little more subdued than usual due to the global economic downturn. Exhibitors are mostly local with foreign car makers staying at home. Perhaps the recession has prompted manufacturers to focus even more on economical and environmentally-friendly electric, hybrid and even hydrogen-powered vehicles. AFP reports: "From a super-skinny Nissan electric car that leans when going around bends, to a lightweight Toyota sports car and a Daihatsu vehicle with a design based on a basket, Japanese makers showed off their visions of the future. While hybrids are still a big feature, electric cars are competing for attention at this year's show as technological breakthroughs in rechargeable batteries bring mass-produced zero emission cars closer to reality." Daihatsu's concept vehicles are also on show. The Sydney Morning Herald reports: "Daihatsu has unveiled a new car that includes a desk for two people complete with high-resolution flat-screen monitor. The Daihatsu Deca Deca looks like a bread van, but functions like a workstation on wheels." The show opens to the public on Saturday if you're lucky enough to be in the Tokyo area.
