The Tokyo Motor Show got underway Wednesday with Japanese firms in a race to take fuel efficient motoring to a new level as rising gasoline prices prompt unprecedented interest in cleaner cars.
With sky-high oil prices pushing up costs at the pump, Asian automakers are looking to build on their recent success with gas-electric hybrids, particularly in the vast US market where they already enjoy a large share.
Many car makers are now touting zero-emission fuel-cell technology as the potential next big thing in ultra-efficient automobiles.
During a day of press previews, Honda unveiled a new hydrogen-powered fuel-cell concept car which runs on a refuelling unit that also supplies electricity and heats water for the home without any polluting emissions.
Mercedes-Benz of Germany unveiled a research vehicle that runs on either a fuel cell or lithium-ion battery and can double as a mobile power generator for camping or outdoor pursuits.
Toyota, whose Prius was the world's first mass-produced hybrid, is showcasing a concept model with fuel-cell and hybrid technology as well as the luxury Lexus brand at the Tokyo Motor Show which opens to the public on Saturday and runs until November 6. With GM struggling to staunch heavy losses, none of its top executives made the trip to Japan for the motor show, which is expected to draw 1.5 million visitors and 239 companies from 13 countries by its close on November 6.