Tokyo Motor Show

Mercedes E-car concept

AMG GT-S Mercedes supercar class. Not a concept. The first model of this series had gull-wings, as did the famous 300 SL of old. Then they went to the simpler, less structurally and mechanically demanding, conservative doors you see here.

One of the most capable and most expensive all-terrain vehicles anywhere, the Mercedes G-Class

A much discussed and admired Mazda concept car

A production car, but popular the world over, the Mazda Miata (MX 5). here with the retractable fastback.

And here, shown open. It's a trick, but makes for a more secure car than a canvas-topped convertible. All of this mechanical complexity to remove a little targa top roof panel. The should have the driver just unlatch it and place it behind the seat or in the trunk. No power needed for that. Mazda forgot their KISS motto!

Porsche was there, but I saw no concept cars and the displays were incredibly crowded. There, too, was a long, long line of people waiting to buy Porsche paraphernalia. They had some racy models on display as well, after all, their's is a racing history and reputation. This is the track-only GT3 cup race car.

AUDI was there, but as with Porsche, I mainly I saw production cars and large crowds, but there was this AUDI, at another booth, This one belongs to the new class of Formula E race cars. A silent hi-tech race, and I wonder if they haven't lost a good part of what going to the races is all about. Even if the world has gone to all silent and super-clean hydrogen and electric cars, the big appeal of auto races will be the roar of the engines,

A Renault Formula E entry

Lexus, Toyota's premium brand, present and much drooled over with many models. Here the LC 500.

And with the LS 500h, a hybrid and possibly pre-production vehicle, not open to be sat in and touched

Godzilla, the vaunted GT-R was wowing the fearless and foolish alike

And silently introduced and admired, the new Nissan Leaf E-car

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