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Motor shows are nothing new. As a concept, they're almost as old as the motorcar itself and today, they tend to be nothing more than a ceremonial christening of concepts that have been in the pipeline for years. But the Tokyo motor show, on the other hand, is a little different.
Since 1954, the event has showcased the latest in automotive technology from Japan and the rest of the world. From eight-wheeled EVs and autonomous living rooms to emotionally intelligent pods and even a mobile DJ booth - if you can dream it, the chances are it's been shown at the Tokyo motor show. Featuring a handful of futuristic concepts from the FIA Formula E Championship's recently announced team, Nissan, the show's overarching focus on electrification, driverless technology and connectivity, offers a glimpse into the future of mobility. With so much on offer, here's Formula E's pick of the weird and wonderful creations from the 2017 Tokyo motor show.
HONDA
EV Sports Concept
Featuring an AI-powered concierge - a popular theme at this year’s show - Honda's Sports EV concept is the sportier follow-up to the Urban EV Concept city car, revealed at the Frankfurt motor show earlier this year. Together, both cars 'represent our determination to pursue electrification in Europe,' said Honda CEO Takahiro Hachigo.
NISSAN
Leaf Nismo
When the first generation Leaf came to fruition in 2010, it was heralded as one of the world's first mass-production EVs, bringing long-range electric mobility to the mass market. Having been focused and fettered by Nismo - Nissan's motorsport division - the Leaf Nismo concept could be another world first for the marque, as the first fully-electric hot hatch. With the potential for a denser battery pack and more powerful electric motor, the Leaf Nismo could prove to be a road-going relation of Nissan's future Formula E car, when marque enters the Championship in 2018.
IMx
While the Leaf Nismo may appear almost production-ready, the IMx sits at the opposite end of the spectrum as a future-gazing, fully-electric, connected and driverless concept car. The initials stand for Intelligent Mobility crossover, hinting at the marque's intentions to electrify more models in its range, as well as the potential for a larger fully-electric SUV.
Canto
Canto - derived from Latin for 'I sing' - is Nissan's all-singing, less-dancing vehicle detection system. Making its debut as a feature on the IMx concept, the system is designed to alert pedestrians to the car's presence by serenading them with sound, which varies in tone and pitch when the car accelerates, decelerates and reverses.
MITSUBISHI
e-Evolution
Powered by not one, not two but three electric motors, Mitsubishi's e-Evolution SUV will feature Level 4 autonomy, meaning the driver can either take control or enjoy a 'mind off' driving experience. Making use of artificial intelligence, the car monitors how you drive, using the personal assistant to help out with safety info and controlling things like the climate control and headlights.
Emirai 4
The Emirai 4 prioritises autonomous driving and connectivity, in the form of a futuristic topless two-seater. Similar to the e-Evolution, the Emirai 4 uses in-car cameras to monitor the occupants and identify any potentially dangerous driving behaviour, while projecting a 3D image of the road ahead on the heads up display when visibility is limited.
TOYOTA
Fine-Comfort Ride
Toyota's hydrogen fuel cell powered Fine-Comfort Ride concept converts a mix of hydrogen and oxygen into electricity to power its four in-wheel motors. With a roomy cabin, four of the Fine-Comfort Ride's six seats swivel around to face each other, creating the ultimate living room on wheels.
SUZUKI
e-Survivor
Last but not least, the Suzuki e-Survivor is a rugged little all-electric off-roader, produced to celebrate the marque's 100th birthday. With no roof, transparent doors and independently powered wheels, the e-Survivor is a light-hearted look into Suzuki's future.