Detroit 3 pull out of 2009 Tokyo Motor Show

Filed under: Trends, Japan, Tokyo Motor Show, Chrysler, LLC., Ford, GM

Word that Detroit automakers are pulling out of this year's Tokyo Motor Show may strike some as retribution for Japanese automakers' very public failure to show at this year's North American International Auto Show. After all, Nissan, Mitsubishi, and Suzuki all pulled out of the Detroit show, right? In reality, the true answer is less conspiratorial and more financial in nature. Exhibiting at a major show requires a seven-figure outlay (General Motors reportedly spent $2 million for their presence at the 2007 Tokyo show), and none of the Detroit 3 have what could be called a major presence in the Japanese market.

No matter the reason, GM and Chrysler are now confirming that they have pulled out of October's Tokyo Motor Show, and word is that Ford didn't meet last year's sign-up deadline, so they probably won't be in attendance, either. Given the high cost associated with building and staffing an international auto show stand - not to mention diminishing crowds and increased exposure through other forms of media (*ahem*) - this sort of story is likely to become more and more common until industry and the wider economy sorts itself out. In fact, if recent reports are accurate, the entire Tokyo Motor Show is itself in doubt.

[Source: Automotive News- sub. req'd.]

Detroit 3 pull out of 2009 Tokyo Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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