The Tokyo Motor Show 2015 is officially underway and as always, it's a virtual wonderland of impractical, implausible, likely impossible yet absolutely desirable. Produced by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, the 44th annual event is known for its unveiling of futuristic concept vehicles and this year's theme, "Your heart will race," is proving appropriate.
Some 160 exhibitors from 11 countries are participating this year, bringing with them 76 world premieres and 68 Japan premieres all bound to wow some 900,000 visitors. But the show stoppers always are the crazy creative concept rides, most of which will never make the mass production line. Here are three of our favorites from this year's show.
- Nissan 2020 Vision Gran Turismo: The idea was borne of collaboration with the makers of Gran Turismo, the iconic driving tame franchise. In July, gamers were first treated to a virtual version released into Gran Turismo 6. But the engineers at Nissan got it in their heads that this sleek, sexy, surreal ride could become a 3D, road-ready reality. They were right. Of course, it's still just a concept, but anything's possible.
- Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo: Let's face it - Nobody enjoys being stuck in standstill, rush-hour traffic. That's why the engineers at Mercedes-Benz set out to create a ride that would prove a rolling "chill-out zone." This self-driving, hydrogen fuel cell-powered lounge on wheels was designed with the uber-connected Generation Z in mind and features a U-shaped couch around a floor-to-roof hologram that displays different apps.
- Toyota Kikai: This one is perhaps the oddest looking concept on display. The look is a bit more "steam punk buggy" than sleek, sexy speedster. But there's a reason for the unusual aesthetics. As Toyota designers put it, the Kikai "takes the machinery, normally hidden beneath the body, and makes an open display of its beauty." This three-sitter features cycle fenders and steelie-style wheels; a cabin with a center driving position and two rear seats; and small windows in the footwells that offer a look at the workings of the front suspension.
Which is your favorite ride featured at the Toyota Motor Show? Post your thoughts and pics on the E3 Spark Plugs Facebook Fan Page.
