Vintage Bakelite Sinko Suicide Steering Wheel Nob on 2040-parts.com

Tokyo motor shows: past, present and future

By Tim Pollard Motor Shows 20 August 2009 09:30 As bets in this topsy-turvy, unpredictable industry go, it’s a banker: of all the motor shows on the global calendar, the Tokyo exhibit is always the barmiest. Although the Chinese shows are rising in importance – and amusement value –  there’s something peculiarly bonkers about the biannual Japanese bash held in downtown Tokyo. So strange is the exhibition at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba City to westerners, that you don’t bat an eyelid at talking cars, vehicles with feelings, or cars designed for dogs.

Lexus IS 250C launches

The Lexus IS 250C launched in Japan this week - and will reach the UK in July The IS Convertible comes in two flavours – the Lexus IS250 C and the 350C – although the initial launch is just the IS 250C. The IS 350C will launch later in the year. Lexus has been working on the IS Convertible for some time, and is aiming it straight in the sites of similar offerings from both BMW and Audi.

Brabus tunes the M-class

German go-fast tuner Brabus has revealed an updated Mercedes-Benz M-class tuning kit, including a wide body, custom wheels and suspension and engine modifications across the line. The Widestar kit for the ML includes new fender flares and rocker panels, giving it a low, menacing stance. The rear bumper integrates the exhaust tips, and a new front spoiler adds four auxiliary daytime running lights.