A number of auto shows were struggling before the pandemic and the situation seems to have gotten worse as a number of brands are being more selective about events and avoiding former staples such as SEMA.
Against that backdrop, the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) has announced the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show will be “reborn.”
During a press conference last week, JAMA revealed the last Tokyo Motor Show was attended by 1.3 million visitors and this proved they could attract more people if they “worked with other industries centered on automobiles.” They’re now doubling down on that idea as they want to rename next year’s event the “Japan All-Industry Show.”
Also Read: Pandemic Causes Tokyo Motor Show To Be Cancelled For The First Time Ever
While the name likely won’t catch on, the intent is clear as they want the show to encompass more things than traditional automobiles. As JAMA said, “We would like to make it a place where many people can gather by collaborating with all Japanese industries beyond the framework of mobility and involving start-up companies. We will change both name and reality with the aim of creating a completely new show, so please look forward to it.”
What that means remains to be seen, but JAMA noted the “strength of the Japanese automobile industry is not only passenger [vehicles], but also a full lineup of commercial, light, and motorcycles.” As a result, it sounds like next year’s event will focus on multiple facets of mobility as cars and crossovers will likely be joined by motorcycles and semis.
Regardless of the show’s name, its return will be welcome as the last Tokyo Motor Show was held in 2019. It’s traditionally a biennial event, but the 2021 edition was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
H/T to Automotive News
