- The event formerly known as the Tokyo Motor Show has been rebranded as the Japan Mobility Show (JMS) and will open on October 29, 2025, at Tokyo Big Sight in Koto Ward, Tokyo Bay. Traditionally held every one to two years (with a pause during the COVID-19 pandemic), the show was once among the world’s five major automotive exhibitions—alongside those in Frankfurt, Detroit, Geneva, and Paris.
- While the IAA in Munich has successfully reinvented itself, Paris and Detroit continue to search for their own way, and the Geneva Motor Show has already withdrawn from the global stage. Meanwhile, auto shows in China and technical shows expos have become increasingly significant to the industry. Against this backdrop, it will be interesting to see how Tokyo asserts its position in today’s evolving landscape.
- The show’s new name reflects a broader vision: Japan’s automotive industry is now fully embracing diverse forms of mobility beyond traditional automobiles—a trend that began years ago, particularly in the context of personal mobility for the elderly, but was not previously captured in the event’s name. Recent announcements by carmakers confirm this shift, with boats, bicycles, and flying vehicles set to appear alongside conventional cars. The Japan Automobile carmakers Association (JAMA) has also announced a record 480 exhibitors for this year’s event.
- Based on the participant list released so far, the show will be dominated by domestic Japanese companies. This contrasts with European auto shows, which are also largely national in focus but tend to feature strong Chinese participation. The situation mirrors Japan’s current automotive market, which is overwhelmingly controlled by local carmakers. Foreign brands often find it challenging to gain traction in Japan, where one company—Toyota—stands out as the clear leader. Now the world’s largest carmaker, Toyota continues to outpace its domestic rivals, who are gradually losing market share. It will be interesting to observe how this dominance is reflected in this year’s show.
- Japan remains the only major country to continue prioritizing full hybrid (F-HEV) technology, while Europe and China are focused mainly on battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and the United States largely maintains its emphasis on combustion engines.
- One tradition, however, remains unchanged: the Tokyo show’s long-standing reputation for showcasing concept cars, design studies, and prototypes. Judging by the announcements from participating carmakers, this hallmark focus will continue at the Japan Mobility Show—albeit under a new name and with a slightly updated format. Once again, concept cars will take centre stage in Tokyo.
- Japan is well known for its regulations governing mini cars, known as “Kei cars.” It is particularly interesting to examine the new developments in this segment showcased at the Japan Mobility Show, especially as discussions about introducing a European equivalent of the Kei car regulations are beginning to emerge. The following pages provide an analysis of this market and the latest kei cars novelties presented at the Japan Mobility Show (JMS).
