FOR CLEAN VERSION SEE STORY NUMBER: 4038307

LEAD IN:

Hybrid and electric cars are now more popular than diesel variants, at the 2016 Busan Motor Show in South Korea.

25 different brands are displaying more than 230 of the latest models, including South Korea's first electric based autonomous car.

STORY-LINE

Future Wave, Inspiring Technology is the theme at this year's Busan Motor Show.

Car makers at this year's event in South Korea have embraced the challenge, and are showing off their future-oriented, high-performance, eco-friendly cars.

Kia, one of South Korea's top car makers, is introducing the K5 PHEV – its first plug-in hybrid attracting commuters with impressive fuel economy figures.

"Compared to hybrid cars, (K5 PHEV) has a financial benefit (of saving) about five million won (USD 4,200) when driving for three years. Compare to general petrol cars, you can enjoy saving about 8.5 million won (USD 7,157) over three years. So I think (K5 PHEV) is the model which has a dominant position in the economic side and reaches its peak in the technical side of medium sized sedan," says Seo Bowon, Director of Domestic Marketing Group of Kia Motors Coporation.

The K5 PHEV is equipped with 9.8kWh mass storage battery, 50kW motor and 2.0 GDI engine, and it can run in either electric or hybrid mode.

A fully-charged K5 PHEV can drive up to 44 km (27.3 miles) in the electric drive mode. Since city commuters drive 30 to 40km one-way on average, drivers of K5 PHEV can commute by charging it twice a day on average.

Getting a step closer to achieving the industry objective of making completely driverless roads, Kia is also showcasing a fully autonomous car Soul EV, South Korea's first electric based autonomous car.

"What Kia pursues is that putting safety first and then increasing the rate of automation by improving the ADAS. ADAS is the system that analyzes the driving conditions optimally by considering not only the driver's safety but also the passenger and other vehicle's and assists driving when the driver needs. (Kia) pursues the technical development which never gives up the driving pleasure," says Park Dong-il, SeniorVice President of Electronics Technology Centre of Hyundai-Kia Motors Group.

Besides electric cars, there's also a hydrogen-fuelled car presented as a futuristic green vehicle at the exhibition.

Toyota introduces Mirai in South Korea for the first time. Equipped with a motor that runs by electricity generated from a reaction of hydrogen and oxygen in air, Mirai features its strength of no emission of green-house gases and environmental pollution.

"Through applying the Fuel Cell(FC) system that is combined of the hybrid technology and the fuel cell technology which consists of new Toyota FC stacks and high-pressure hydrogen tanks that Toyota has self-developed, the energy efficiency is very high compared to the existing internal combustion engine. Also (Mirai FCV) realises remarkable environment friendly that does not emit carbon dioxide or environmental pollutant and it can run for 650 kilometres by three minutes of hydrogen refueling," says Kang Dae Hwan, Director of Korea Toyota operation.

With the slogan "From Smart Hyrid to Smart Future," Toyota is displaying eight eco-friendly models including Mirai, Toyota i-Road, 4th Generation Prius and RAV4 Hybrid.

Among the eight cars that are introduced to the industry for the first time at the 2016 Busan Motor Show, is Hyundai's premium brand Genesis's G80 and G80.

This is Genesis's second model since the brand was launched. The G80 is a face-lift model of Hyundai's Genesis sedan (a luxury sedan model of Hyundai that has been selling under the brand Hyundai before the company launched an independent premium brand Genesis).

G80 maintains the majority of the design of the Genesis model but is added with more volume and luxury.

Equipped with an improved 3.3 litre/3.8 litre petrol engine and eight-speed transmission, G80 features driving capacity and fuel efficiency that are raised to a higher level compared to the exisitng Genesis model.

"It's not only about products. Obviously, that is the core of our activities making fascinating products.So the G series, as you have just mentioned, we are starting with the G90, today you have now the premiere of G80 and there will be also following as you might know G70 and other vehicle and we have a very, very clear target and focus on entering into this luxury market and being a true competitor at there," says Manfred Fitzgerald, Executive director of Genesis strategy.

Genesis plans to throw a hat in the luxury car market with G80 and compete with luxury sedans such as the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E class.

The 2016 Busan Motor Show opens to the public 3-12 June.

FOR CLEAN VERSION SEE STORY NUMBER: 4038307

LEAD IN:

Hybrid and electric cars are now more popular than diesel variants, at the 2016 Busan Motor Show in South Korea.

25 different brands are displaying more than 230 of the latest models, including South Korea's first electric based autonomous car.

STORY-LINE

Future Wave, Inspiring Technology is the theme at this year's Busan Motor Show.

Car makers at this year's event in South Korea have embraced the challenge, and are showing off their future-oriented, high-performance, eco-friendly cars.

Kia, one of South Korea's top car makers, is introducing the K5 PHEV – its first plug-in hybrid attracting commuters with impressive fuel economy figures.

"Compared to hybrid cars, (K5 PHEV) has a financial benefit (of saving) about five million won (USD 4,200) when driving for three years. Compare to general petrol cars, you can enjoy saving about 8.5 million won (USD 7,157) over three years. So I think (K5 PHEV) is the model which has a dominant position in the economic side and reaches its peak in the technical side of medium sized sedan," says Seo Bowon, Director of Domestic Marketing Group of Kia Motors Coporation.

The K5 PHEV is equipped with 9.8kWh mass storage battery, 50kW motor and 2.0 GDI engine, and it can run in either electric or hybrid mode.

A fully-charged K5 PHEV can drive up to 44 km (27.3 miles) in the electric drive mode. Since city commuters drive 30 to 40km one-way on average, drivers of K5 PHEV can commute by charging it twice a day on average.

Getting a step closer to achieving the industry objective of making completely driverless roads, Kia is also showcasing a fully autonomous car Soul EV, South Korea's first electric based autonomous car.

"What Kia pursues is that putting safety first and then increasing the rate of automation by improving the ADAS. ADAS is the system that analyzes the driving conditions optimally by considering not only the driver's safety but also the passenger and other vehicle's and assists driving when the driver needs. (Kia) pursues the technical development which never gives up the driving pleasure," says Park Dong-il, SeniorVice President of Electronics Technology Centre of Hyundai-Kia Motors Group.

Besides electric cars, there's also a hydrogen-fuelled car presented as a futuristic green vehicle at the exhibition.

Toyota introduces Mirai in South Korea for the first time. Equipped with a motor that runs by electricity generated from a reaction of hydrogen and oxygen in air, Mirai features its strength of no emission of green-house gases and environmental pollution.

"Through applying the Fuel Cell(FC) system that is combined of the hybrid technology and the fuel cell technology which consists of new Toyota FC stacks and high-pressure hydrogen tanks that Toyota has self-developed, the energy efficiency is very high compared to the existing internal combustion engine. Also (Mirai FCV) realises remarkable environment friendly that does not emit carbon dioxide or environmental pollutant and it can run for 650 kilometres by three minutes of hydrogen refueling," says Kang Dae Hwan, Director of Korea Toyota operation.

With the slogan "From Smart Hyrid to Smart Future," Toyota is displaying eight eco-friendly models including Mirai, Toyota i-Road, 4th Generation Prius and RAV4 Hybrid.

Among the eight cars that are introduced to the industry for the first time at the 2016 Busan Motor Show, is Hyundai's premium brand Genesis's G80 and G80.

This is Genesis's second model since the brand was launched. The G80 is a face-lift model of Hyundai's Genesis sedan (a luxury sedan model of Hyundai that has been selling under the brand Hyundai before the company launched an independent premium brand Genesis).

G80 maintains the majority of the design of the Genesis model but is added with more volume and luxury.

Equipped with an improved 3.3 litre/3.8 litre petrol engine and eight-speed transmission, G80 features driving capacity and fuel efficiency that are raised to a higher level compared to the exisitng Genesis model.

"It's not only about products. Obviously, that is the core of our activities making fascinating products.So the G series, as you have just mentioned, we are starting with the G90, today you have now the premiere of G80 and there will be also following as you might know G70 and other vehicle and we have a very, very clear target and focus on entering into this luxury market and being a true competitor at there," says Manfred Fitzgerald, Executive director of Genesis strategy.

Genesis plans to throw a hat in the luxury car market with G80 and compete with luxury sedans such as the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E class.

The 2016 Busan Motor Show opens to the public 3-12 June.

AP Television

Busan, South Korea - 2 June, 2016

1. Pan right and pull of Kia's K7 Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) driving onto the stage for its world premiere

2. Pan from the bonnet of K5 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) to the body

3. Wide of K7 HEV and K5 PHEV

4. Wide of K5 PHEV on the stage

5. Close Tilt down from 'KIA' emblem on K5 PHEV to 'K5 Plug-in hybrid'

6. Rear side view of K5 PHEV

7. Close of 'ECO plug-in' sign on K5 PHEV

8. SOUNDBITE: (Korean) Seo Bowon, Director of Domestic Marketing Group of Kia Motors Corporation:

"Compared to hybrid cars, (K5 PHEV) has a financial benefit (of saving) about five million Won (USD 4,200) when driving for three years. Compare to general petrol cars, you can enjoy saving about 8.5 million Won (USD 7,157) over three years. So I think (K5 PHEV) is the model which has a dominant position in the economic side and reaches its peak in the technical side of a medium sized sedan."

9. Wide of Autonomous Vehicle Soul Electric Vehicle (EV) which is based on the first Korean electric car self-driving to the stage

10. Close of empty diver's seat of Autonomous Vehicle Soul EV

11. Wide of Autonomous Vehicle Soul EV arriving to the stage

12. Pan right of Senior Vice President of Electronics Technology Centre of Hyundai Motor Group Park Dong-il getting out of Autonomous Vehicle Soul EV and walking to the stage

13. Wide of Park presenting 'Improved ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Sysyems)' which includes Highway driving information system, Remote smart control system and Anti-collision system

14. SOUNDBITE: (Korean) Park Dong-il, Senior Vice President of Electronics Technology Centre of Hyundai-Kia Motor Group:

"What Kia pursues is putting safety first and then increasing the rate of automation by improving the ADAS. ADAS is the system that analyzes the driving conditions optimally by considering not only the driver's safety but also the passenger and other vehicles and assists driving when the driver needs. (Kia) pursues the technical development which never gives up the driving pleasure. "

15. Wide of Toyota's first mass production type of hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCV) Mirai being unveiled to the press, which is a Korean premier

16. Close of 'Mirai' sign on the front of Mirai FCV

17. Mid of Mirai FCV on the stage

18. Wide of Mirai FCV on the stage

19. Wide of CEO of Korea Toyota Motor Yoshida Akihisa with Mirai FCV on the stage

20. Front three quarters view of Mirai FCV

21. Close of 'FUELCELL' on Mirai FCV

22. SOUNDBITE: (Korean) Kang Dae Hwan, Director of Korea Toyota operation:

"Through applying the Fuel Cell (FC) system that is combined of the hybrid technology and the fuel cell technology, which consists of new Toyota FC stacks and high-pressure hydrogen tanks that Toyota has self-developed, the energy efficiency is very high compared to the existing internal combustion engine. Also (Mirai FCV) realises remarkably environmentally friendly (driving) that does not emit carbon dioxide or environmental pollutants, and it can run for 650 kilometres on three minutes of hydrogen refuelling."

23. Wide of Genesis's second model of large sedan G80 and G80 Sport being disclosed to the press which is a world premiere

24. Pan from G80 to G80 Sport on the stage

25. Wide of executive director of Genesis strategy Manfred Fitzgerald and Head of Genesis design Luc Donckerwolke presenting on the stage

26. Tilt up from the front of G80 to the body

27. Front three quarters of G80

28. Pan right from the front of G80 to the body

29. Close of the driver's seat of G80

30. Various details inside G80

31. Rear view of G80

32. SOUNDBITE: (English) Manfred Fitzgerald, executive director of Genesis strategy

"It's not only about products. Obviously, that is the core of our activities making fascinating products. So the G series, as you have just mentioned, we are starting with the G90, today you have now the premiere of the G80 and there will be also following as you might know the G70 and other vehicles and we have a very, very clear target and focus on entering into this luxury market and being a true competitor at there."

33. Close of Genesis emblem on G80 Sport

34. G80 Sport on the stage

35. Front of G80 Sport

36. Close of 'G80 Sport' badge on the back of G80 Sport

37. Pan right from the back to the side of G80 Sport

38. Various of Genesis exhibition hall

39. Mid of Mini Convertible at Mini cooper exhibition hall

40. Wide of Busan motor exhibition hall

LENGTH: 5:05

LEAD-IN:

The ongoing Zika virus emergency has forced one Indian auto maker into rebranding a hatchback it was previously planning to call 'Zica'.

A host of international auto makers - including Chevrolet, Toyota and Jaguar - are showcasing concept cars and latest models at the 2016 India Auto Expo.

STORY-LINE:

Kick start your engines, the 2016 India Auto Expo is go.

In Greater Noida on the outskirts of Delhi, both Indian and international car makers are showcasing their latest models, concepts and hybrid variants for expectant crowds.

The Auto Expo is one of the largest motor shows in Asia, attracting thousands of car enthusiasts hoping to catch a glimpse of the latest in automobile innovation.

General Motors brand Chevrolet is showcasing its 'Beat Activ' concept car.

A youthful and perhaps great-valued vehicle should it ever go into production, according to Chevrolet's Tim Mahoney.

"The vehicle in many ways reflects kind of the DNA of Chevrolet," he says.

"It gets really great styling, it's really youthful. I think it has a performance aspect to it because of the soft roader appeal. And also we expect if it were to really go, really great value that it could offer."

Chevrolet is also showcasing its 'Essentia' which it plans to launch in India next year.

Mahoney, Global Chevrolet's chief marketing officer, says India is one of its top ten markets in the world.

The US carmaker plans to bring ten new vehicles to the country in the next five years.

"Chevrolet is sold in 115 markets around the world but India's really in our top ten," he says.

"It's a priority market for us. Lots of potential. And you can see it here our investment in the stand, in the display, the products that we're bringing.

"We plan to bring over the next five years, ten new products to market here in India."

Luxury carmaker Jaguar invited Bollywood actor Katrina Kaif to launch its new sports saloon, the Jaguar XE. It's priced at over $57,000 USD in the Indian market.

A range of luxury cars built to satisfy the county's growing pool of super-rich motoring enthusiasts are also on display, including this Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) Range Rover SUV.

The undisputed leader of India's auto market, Maruti Suzuki, is launching its new compact SUV - the Vitara Brezza.

It's powered by a Diesel Direct Injection System (DDiS) engine. Though the vehicle will initially be available in diesel, the company also plans to launch a petrol version.

"The young customer, the third generation customer, who is considering his car as an extension of his personality, he likes to have this kind of aggressive, bold and energetic features, and that kind of stance we have provided in this vehicle," says Randhir Singh Kalsi from Maruti Suzuki India.

Earlier this year, India's Supreme Court continued its ban on registration of certain new diesel vehicles in Delhi until March 31.

That came as bad news for car makers Mercedes, Toyota and General Motors who petitioned against the ban.

With its unique shape and new hybrid engine, concept race car the Toyota TS030 Hybrid is getting lots of attention.

Though hybrid cars aren't popular in the Indian market, the influx of hybrid concepts and engines here suggests there'll be growth in that sector in years to come.

The World Health Organisation recently (1 February 2016) declared a global emergency over the explosive spread of the Zika virus, linked to birth defects in the Americas.

The ongoing emergency is even having an impact here at the auto show with India's Tata Motors being forced to rebrand a new hatchback vehicle it was previously planning to call 'Zica'.

Despite being unveiled here at the event with 'Zica' branding, Tata Motors senior official, Girish Wagh, says they plan not to use the name and will announce a new one in the coming weeks.

According to Wagh, Zica is an abbreviation of 'Zippy Car'.

"What we have made is a car which is meant for the youth of the country. It's a very zippy car, very good to drive around in the city, therefore we had named it as Zica," he says.

"However, you know this virus Zika has also come up and is kind of taking a shape of an epidemic so we are taking cognisance of that fact.

"We empathise with all those who have been suffering due to this and taking a call on this. Therefore, we have decided to change the name of the car."

Most cars sold in India have price tags of under $8,000 USD.

But global manufacturers are optimistic.

They say with an expanding middle class and growing urbanisation, there are long term prospects for growth in the Indian market.

Though the motor show opens to the public Friday (5 February), members of the media were invited for an advance press preview.

LEAD-IN:

The ongoing Zika virus emergency has forced one Indian auto maker into rebranding a hatchback it was previously planning to call 'Zica'.

A host of international auto makers - including Chevrolet, Toyota and Jaguar - are showcasing concept cars and latest models at the 2016 India Auto Expo.

STORY-LINE:

Kick start your engines, the 2016 India Auto Expo is go.

In Greater Noida on the outskirts of Delhi, both Indian and international car makers are showcasing their latest models, concepts and hybrid variants for expectant crowds.

The Auto Expo is one of the largest motor shows in Asia, attracting thousands of car enthusiasts hoping to catch a glimpse of the latest in automobile innovation.

General Motors brand Chevrolet is showcasing its 'Beat Activ' concept car.

A youthful and perhaps great-valued vehicle should it ever go into production, according to Chevrolet's Tim Mahoney.

"The vehicle in many ways reflects kind of the DNA of Chevrolet," he says.

"It gets really great styling, it's really youthful. I think it has a performance aspect to it because of the soft roader appeal. And also we expect if it were to really go, really great value that it could offer."

Chevrolet is also showcasing its 'Essentia' which it plans to launch in India next year.

Mahoney, Global Chevrolet's chief marketing officer, says India is one of its top ten markets in the world.

The US carmaker plans to bring ten new vehicles to the country in the next five years.

"Chevrolet is sold in 115 markets around the world but India's really in our top ten," he says.

"It's a priority market for us. Lots of potential. And you can see it here our investment in the stand, in the display, the products that we're bringing.

"We plan to bring over the next five years, ten new products to market here in India."

Luxury carmaker Jaguar invited Bollywood actor Katrina Kaif to launch its new sports saloon, the Jaguar XE. It's priced at over $57,000 USD in the Indian market.

A range of luxury cars built to satisfy the county's growing pool of super-rich motoring enthusiasts are also on display, including this Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) Range Rover SUV.

The undisputed leader of India's auto market, Maruti Suzuki, is launching its new compact SUV - the Vitara Brezza.

It's powered by a Diesel Direct Injection System (DDiS) engine. Though the vehicle will initially be available in diesel, the company also plans to launch a petrol version.

"The young customer, the third generation customer, who is considering his car as an extension of his personality, he likes to have this kind of aggressive, bold and energetic features, and that kind of stance we have provided in this vehicle," says Randhir Singh Kalsi from Maruti Suzuki India.

Earlier this year, India's Supreme Court continued its ban on registration of certain new diesel vehicles in Delhi until March 31.

That came as bad news for car makers Mercedes, Toyota and General Motors who petitioned against the ban.

With its unique shape and new hybrid engine, concept race car the Toyota TS030 Hybrid is getting lots of attention.

Though hybrid cars aren't popular in the Indian market, the influx of hybrid concepts and engines here suggests there'll be growth in that sector in years to come.

The World Health Organisation recently (1 February 2016) declared a global emergency over the explosive spread of the Zika virus, linked to birth defects in the Americas.

The ongoing emergency is even having an impact here at the auto show with India's Tata Motors being forced to rebrand a new hatchback vehicle it was previously planning to call 'Zica'.

Despite being unveiled here at the event with 'Zica' branding, Tata Motors senior official, Girish Wagh, says they plan not to use the name and will announce a new one in the coming weeks.

According to Wagh, Zica is an abbreviation of 'Zippy Car'.

"What we have made is a car which is meant for the youth of the country. It's a very zippy car, very good to drive around in the city, therefore we had named it as Zica," he says.

"However, you know this virus Zika has also come up and is kind of taking a shape of an epidemic so we are taking cognisance of that fact.

"We empathise with all those who have been suffering due to this and taking a call on this. Therefore, we have decided to change the name of the car."

Most cars sold in India have price tags of under $8,000 USD.

But global manufacturers are optimistic.

They say with an expanding middle class and growing urbanisation, there are long term prospects for growth in the Indian market.

Though the motor show opens to the public Friday (5 February), members of the media were invited for an advance press preview.

Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India - 3 February 2016

1. Wide of media waiting for unveiling of Chevrolet's concept car 'Beat Activ' at 2016 Auto Expo near New Delhi

2. Wide of unveiling of Chevrolet Beat Activ concept car and photographers taking pictures

3. Various of Chevrolet Beat Activ concept car

4. Various of Chevrolet Beat Activ concept car interior

5. SOUNDBITE (English) Tim Mahoney, Chief Marketing Officer Global Chevrolet and Global General Motors Marketing Operations Leader:

"The vehicle in many ways reflects kind of the DNA of Chevrolet. It gets really great styling, it's really youthful. I think it has a performance aspect to it because of the soft roader appeal. And also we expect if it were to really go, really great value that it could offer."

6. Mid of Chevrolet Essentia on display

7. Various of people sitting in Chevrolet Essentia

8. Various of Chevrolet Corvette on display

9. Various of Chevrolet Trailblazer on display

10. SOUNDBITE (English) Tim Mahoney, Chief Marketing Officer Global Chevrolet and Global General Motors Marketing Operations Leader:

"Chevrolet is sold in 115 markets around the world but India's really in our top ten. It's a priority market for us. Lots of potential. And you can see it here our investment in the stand, in the display, the products that we're bringing. We plan to bring over the next five years, ten new products to market here in India."

11. Wide of Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif launching the Jaguar XE sports saloon

12. Close of Jaguar logo

13. Mid of Katrina Kaif and Jaguar XE sports saloon

14. Various of Range Rover

15. Various of Maruti Suzuki's Vitara Brezza being unveiled at motor show

15. Various of Maruti Suzuki's Vitara Brezza exterior and interior

16. Close of Maruti Suzuki's logo on Vitara Brezza

17. SOUNDBITE (English) Randhir Singh Kalsi, Executive Director Maruti Suzuki India:

"The young customer, the third generation customer, who is considering his car as an extension of his personality, he likes to have this kind of aggressive, bold and energetic features, and that kind of stance we have provided in this vehicle."

18. Pan right of Toyota stand at motor show

19. Close of Toyota TS030 Hybrid on display

20. Wide of motor show floor

21. Wide of Audi Prologue concept on display

22. Wide of Nissan stand

23. Wide of Nissan X-Trail on display with photographers taking pictures of engine

24. Mid of Nissan hybrid engine on display

25. Wide of Nissan X-Trail rear

26. Various of Renault R.S. 01 sports car on display

27. Tilt up to woman posing with Renault Eolab hybrid concept car

28. Close of Renault Eolab wheel

29. Various of Renault Eolab interior and exterior

30. Wide of BMW's R nineT (left) and BMW S 1000 XR (right) on display at BMW stand

31. Tilt down of BMW R nineT

32. Wide of Mahindra's stand at 2016 Auto Expo

33. Wide of visitor standing on modified Mahindra Thar

34. Close of off-road tyres installed on modified Mahindra Thar

35. Wide of unveiling of Tata Motors' Zica and Hexa models

36. Close of Tata Motors' Zica after unveiling

37. Wide of Tata Motors Chairman Cyrus Mistry (left) and Tim Leverton, Head of Tata Engineering and Research Development (right), posing for photographers with recently unveiled Tata Zica

38. SOUNDBITE (English) Girish Wagh, Program Planning and Project Management Passenger Vehicles, Tata Motors:

"What we have made is a car which is meant for the youth of the country. It's a very zippy car, very good to drive around in the city, therefore we had named it as Zica. However, you know this virus Zika has also come up and is kind of taking a shape of an epidemic, so we are taking cognisance of that fact. We empathise with all those who have been suffering due to this and taking a call on this. Therefore, we have decided to change the name of the car."

39. Various of 1970 Datson Bluebird 1600 SSS on display at Datsun stand

LEAD IN:

A full-throttle mix of luxury sports cars, on-trend SUVs and even a hydrogen fuel cell-powered car are set to thrill visitors to the London Motor Show.

It's the first time in eight years the event has been staged and it couldn't have come at a better time - figures show UK car production recently hit a 12-year high.

STORY-LINE:

Making its global debut in London is this latest entry into the booming sports utility vehicle (SUV) market, MG Motor UK's all-new five-seater GS SUV.

The British auto manufacturer says consumers are no longer looking to sports cars for freedom and adventures, as SUVs are offering that and much more.

That's why it's following in the footsteps of Jaguar and Maserati by dipping its toes into the SUV market.

SUVs and crossovers are the fastest growing segments globally.

According to recently released figures, America's love of trucks and SUVs helped push the auto industry to its best April ever.

US consumers bought just over 1.5 million vehicles in April, nudging out the old record set in April 2005, according to Kelley Blue Book.

Honda and Nissan set April records, Ford posted record SUV sales and Toyota sold more trucks and SUVs than ever.

Matthew Cheyne, head of sales and marketing for MG Motor UK Ltd., says they're most excited about the GS' price, although that's yet to be released.

"For us, this is about affordable family fun," he says.

"So, this is a great vehicle, it's a fun vehicle, it's a great vehicle to drive. It's also a great vehicle for the family and that's whether you're a small family or a big family, individuals or whatever, but also it's affordable.

"So when you look at the whole package, this is a vehicle that you're not only going to want to do things in - go and have great days out, go and have adventures and so on - but because it's affordable, you've still got spare money leftover to be able to go and do that."

Could this be a vision of our future? At London Motor Show, UK-based hydrogen fuel cell eco car company Riversimple is exhibiting its first production prototype, named Rasa.

It may look like a normal two-seater, but this "network electric" car is powered by hydrogen fuel cell technology. Riversimple says its engineering prototype hit speeds over 60 miles per hour.

The chassis is a carbon fibre monocoque made from lightweight composites, weighing less than 40 kilograms. The whole car weighs around 580 kilograms.

Four electric motors in each wheel recover around 50 percent of kinetic energy when braking. It's then stored in super-capacitors to provide power for acceleration.

All this combined means the production prototype achieve a range of around 300 miles.

Having unveiled Rasa in February this year, Riversimple is currently building a series of cars for the public to test and refine during a 12-month trial period.

"The car is designed with a 300-mile range not because we want people to do a 300-mile journey, but because it's designed to be at least a weeks' use of fuel for a local car," says Hugo Spowers from Riversimple.

"This is designed for the local vehicle market, a lot of people buy a car for local use and the great advantage for hydrogen of targeting that particular market niche is that you can create a commercial market with just one filling station."

Drawing big crowds at the London Motor Show is the VUHL 05 Lightweight Supercar, exhibited by specialist car dealer Bespoke Performance.

Designed and produced in Mexico, the VUHL 05 is powered by Ford's award-winning turbocharged 2-litre EcoBoost engine.

That's enough to grant this two-seater, road-legal supercar a roaring top speed of 245 kilometres per hour (152 mph) and 285 brake horse power.

VUHL says it can accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in just 3.7 seconds.

And it seems destined for the racetrack. It boasts an in-built HD camera with console-mounted control which means track day enthusiasts can record their laps at a push of a button.

It's currently on sale at a price of 59,995 British pounds (approx. $87,000 USD).

"It's designed as a supercar built for the track and road," says Mark Kent, owner and director of Bespoke Performance.

"So the idea is you can drive it straight out of your garage, on the road, without trailing it to a track, but also seen as something a little bit special.

"So it's based on superb design and fantastic engineering, so really complex, almost aeronautical engineering, so honeycomb aluminium chassis bonded, really, really great attention to detail."

Roaring into London is McLaren's latest model in its full-throttle sports series, the 570GT.

Claimed to be the most refined and luxurious McLaren to date, the 570GT is fitted with a 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 engine.

This generates 562 brake horsepower and 600 newton metres of torque, says McLaren.

But the British luxury and high-performance automotive manufacturer says it's practical enough for everyday use and long-distance journeys.

McLaren says UK pricing of the 570GT begins at 154,000 British pounds (approx. $223,000 USD), deliveries are scheduled to begin in July this year.

"It's much more kind of road-orientated and inspired and really built as a GT should be, so a grand tourer with a little bit of extra comfort for longer road journeys than say it's 570S counterpart, but really with none of the penalties in terms of overall performance," says Jon Pollock from McLaren Automotive.

"So you lose very little in terms of, for example 0-62 time, and the handling is just that little bit more comfortable for the longer runs, and of course with the unique rear-opening hatch and the panoramic roof, you've got a feeling of light and spaciousness that you don't get in a normal sports car."

Delighting in classic British sporting design is this limited edition "Brooklands Roadster" by Japan-based Mitsuoka Motor.

Finished in British Racing Green, the Brooklands uses a standard roadster as its base, but with added luxury.

Its interior features a walnut dashboard panel and cream leather, in keeping with British heritage.

To complete the car, Mitsuoka specially commissioned these special sports handcrafted wire-style wheels, synonymous with classic British sports cars of the early twentieth century.

While it may look like a classic car, this rear-wheel drive vehicle is fitted with all the latest driving technology, including four-wheel ABS, traction control systems and dynamic stability control.

The Brooklands is being exhibited by UK car dealer TW White and Sons, priced at 57,500 British pounds (approx. $83,000 USD).

"We decided to take the car, which is obviously a very classic-looking British sports car - and just try and tweak it so that it's got the wire wheels, it's got the bespoke leather, it's got the wooden interior so it celebrates everything there is to do with British motoring heritage," says Neil White from TW White & Sons.

Returning after an eight-year absence, London Motor Show is featuring over 40 car brands and 130 models, including famous brands Bentley, Rolls Royce, Ferrari and Lamborghini.

And it couldn't have come at a better time.

According to recent (28 April) figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), car production in the UK reached a 12-year high this March.

Over 159,000 cars rolled off UK production lines during the month, around one every 16 seconds. That's a 9.8 percent increase in comparison to last year.

"Obviously the figures show that we've had the best March in 12 years and the fact that now we've got two motor shows if you include Goodwood is a good sign for the UK's car industry and its growth," says James Beckwith from UK-based weekly magazine, Autocar.

London Motor Show runs 6-8 May in the British capital's Battersea Evolution.

AP TELEVISION

London, UK - 5 May 2016

1. Wide of unveiling the all-new MG GS SUV at London Motor Show

2. Various of MG GS on display at London Motor Show

3. SOUNDBITE (English) Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing, MG Motor UK Ltd:

"For us, this is about affordable family fun. So, this is a great vehicle, it's a fun vehicle, it's a great vehicle to drive. It's also a great vehicle for the family and that's whether you're a small family or a big family, individuals or whatever, but also it's affordable. So when you look at the whole package, this is a vehicle that you're not only going to want to do things in - go and have great days out, go and have adventures and so on - but because it's affordable, you've still got spare money leftover to be able to go and do that."

4. Various of Riversimple Rasa hydrogen fuel cell car on display at London Motor Show

5. SOUNDBITE (English) Hugo Spowers, Company Architect of Riversimple:

"The car is designed with a 300-mile range not because we want people to do a 300-mile journey, but because it's designed to be at least a weeks' use of fuel for a local car. This is designed for the local vehicle market, a lot of people buy a car for local use and the great advantage for hydrogen of targeting that particular market niche is that you can create a commercial market with just one filling station."

6. Various of VUHL 05 lightweight supercar on display at London Motor Show

7. Setup shot of Mark Kent, Business and Development Director, Bespoke Performance, climbing into VUHL 05

8. Cutaway of 'VUHL' insignia on car

9. SOUNDBITE (English) Mark Kent, Owner and Director of Bespoke Performance:

"It's designed as a supercar built for the track and road. So the idea is you can drive it straight out of your garage, on the road, without trailing it to a track, but also seen as something a little bit special. So it's based on superb design and fantastic engineering, so really complex, almost aeronautical engineering, so honeycomb aluminium chassis bonded, really, really great attention to detail."

10. Various of McLaren 570GT on display at London Motor Show

11. SOUNDBITE (English) Jon Pollock, Managing Director of Europe Region, McLaren Automotive:

"It's much more kind of road-orientated and inspired and really built as a GT should be, so a grand tourer with a little bit of extra comfort for longer road journeys than say it's 570S counterpart, but really with none of the penalties in terms of overall performance. So you lose very little in terms of, for example 0-62 time, and the handling is just that little bit more comfortable for the longer runs, and of course with the unique rear-opening hatch and the panoramic roof, you've got a feeling of light and spaciousness that you don't get in a normal sports car."

12. Various of Mitsuoka Brooklands Roadster on display at London Motor Show

13. SOUNDBITE (English) Neil White, Managing Director of TW White & Sons:

"We decided to take the car, which is obviously a very classic-looking British sports car - and just try and tweak it so that it's got the wire wheels, it's got the bespoke leather, it's got the wooden interior so it celebrates everything there is to do with British motoring heritage."

14. Various high shots of London Motor Show floor

15. SOUNDBITE (English) James Beckwith, Autocar Magazine:

"Obviously the figures show that we've had the best March in 12 years and the fact that now we've got two motor shows if you include Goodwood is a good sign for the UK's car industry and its growth."

16. Various high shots of London Motor Show floor

LENGTH: 7:00

LEAD IN:

A full-throttle mix of luxury sports cars, on-trend SUVs and even a hydrogen fuel cell-powered car are set to thrill visitors to the London Motor Show.

It's the first time in eight years the event has been staged and it couldn't have come at a better time - figures show UK car production recently hit a 12-year high.

STORY-LINE:

Making its global debut in London is this latest entry into the booming sports utility vehicle (SUV) market, MG Motor UK's all-new five-seater GS SUV.

The British auto manufacturer says consumers are no longer looking to sports cars for freedom and adventures, as SUVs are offering that and much more.

That's why it's following in the footsteps of Jaguar and Maserati by dipping its toes into the SUV market.

SUVs and crossovers are the fastest growing segments globally.

According to recently released figures, America's love of trucks and SUVs helped push the auto industry to its best April ever.

US consumers bought just over 1.5 million vehicles in April, nudging out the old record set in April 2005, according to Kelley Blue Book.

Honda and Nissan set April records, Ford posted record SUV sales and Toyota sold more trucks and SUVs than ever.

Matthew Cheyne, head of sales and marketing for MG Motor UK Ltd., says they're most excited about the GS' price, although that's yet to be released.

"For us, this is about affordable family fun," he says.

"So, this is a great vehicle, it's a fun vehicle, it's a great vehicle to drive. It's also a great vehicle for the family and that's whether you're a small family or a big family, individuals or whatever, but also it's affordable.

"So when you look at the whole package, this is a vehicle that you're not only going to want to do things in - go and have great days out, go and have adventures and so on - but because it's affordable, you've still got spare money leftover to be able to go and do that."

Could this be a vision of our future? At London Motor Show, UK-based hydrogen fuel cell eco car company Riversimple is exhibiting its first production prototype, named Rasa.

It may look like a normal two-seater, but this "network electric" car is powered by hydrogen fuel cell technology. Riversimple says its engineering prototype hit speeds over 60 miles per hour.

The chassis is a carbon fibre monocoque made from lightweight composites, weighing less than 40 kilograms. The whole car weighs around 580 kilograms.

Four electric motors in each wheel recover around 50 percent of kinetic energy when braking. It's then stored in super-capacitors to provide power for acceleration.

All this combined means the production prototype achieve a range of around 300 miles.

Having unveiled Rasa in February this year, Riversimple is currently building a series of cars for the public to test and refine during a 12-month trial period.

"The car is designed with a 300-mile range not because we want people to do a 300-mile journey, but because it's designed to be at least a weeks' use of fuel for a local car," says Hugo Spowers from Riversimple.

"This is designed for the local vehicle market, a lot of people buy a car for local use and the great advantage for hydrogen of targeting that particular market niche is that you can create a commercial market with just one filling station."

Drawing big crowds at the London Motor Show is the VUHL 05 Lightweight Supercar, exhibited by specialist car dealer Bespoke Performance.

Designed and produced in Mexico, the VUHL 05 is powered by Ford's award-winning turbocharged 2-litre EcoBoost engine.

That's enough to grant this two-seater, road-legal supercar a roaring top speed of 245 kilometres per hour (152 mph) and 285 brake horse power.

VUHL says it can accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in just 3.7 seconds.

And it seems destined for the racetrack. It boasts an in-built HD camera with console-mounted control which means track day enthusiasts can record their laps at a push of a button.

It's currently on sale at a price of 59,995 British pounds (approx. $87,000 USD).

"It's designed as a supercar built for the track and road," says Mark Kent, owner and director of Bespoke Performance.

"So the idea is you can drive it straight out of your garage, on the road, without trailing it to a track, but also seen as something a little bit special.

"So it's based on superb design and fantastic engineering, so really complex, almost aeronautical engineering, so honeycomb aluminium chassis bonded, really, really great attention to detail."

Roaring into London is McLaren's latest model in its full-throttle sports series, the 570GT.

Claimed to be the most refined and luxurious McLaren to date, the 570GT is fitted with a 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 engine.

This generates 562 brake horsepower and 600 newton metres of torque, says McLaren.

But the British luxury and high-performance automotive manufacturer says it's practical enough for everyday use and long-distance journeys.

McLaren says UK pricing of the 570GT begins at 154,000 British pounds (approx. $223,000 USD), deliveries are scheduled to begin in July this year.

"It's much more kind of road-orientated and inspired and really built as a GT should be, so a grand tourer with a little bit of extra comfort for longer road journeys than say it's 570S counterpart, but really with none of the penalties in terms of overall performance," says Jon Pollock from McLaren Automotive.

"So you lose very little in terms of, for example 0-62 time, and the handling is just that little bit more comfortable for the longer runs, and of course with the unique rear-opening hatch and the panoramic roof, you've got a feeling of light and spaciousness that you don't get in a normal sports car."

Delighting in classic British sporting design is this limited edition "Brooklands Roadster" by Japan-based Mitsuoka Motor.

Finished in British Racing Green, the Brooklands uses a standard roadster as its base, but with added luxury.

Its interior features a walnut dashboard panel and cream leather, in keeping with British heritage.

To complete the car, Mitsuoka specially commissioned these special sports handcrafted wire-style wheels, synonymous with classic British sports cars of the early twentieth century.

While it may look like a classic car, this rear-wheel drive vehicle is fitted with all the latest driving technology, including four-wheel ABS, traction control systems and dynamic stability control.

The Brooklands is being exhibited by UK car dealer TW White and Sons, priced at 57,500 British pounds (approx. $83,000 USD).

"We decided to take the car, which is obviously a very classic-looking British sports car - and just try and tweak it so that it's got the wire wheels, it's got the bespoke leather, it's got the wooden interior so it celebrates everything there is to do with British motoring heritage," says Neil White from TW White & Sons.

Returning after an eight-year absence, London Motor Show is featuring over 40 car brands and 130 models, including famous brands Bentley, Rolls Royce, Ferrari and Lamborghini.

And it couldn't have come at a better time.

According to recent (28 April) figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), car production in the UK reached a 12-year high this March.

Over 159,000 cars rolled off UK production lines during the month, around one every 16 seconds. That's a 9.8 percent increase in comparison to last year.

"Obviously the figures show that we've had the best March in 12 years and the fact that now we've got two motor shows if you include Goodwood is a good sign for the UK's car industry and its growth," says James Beckwith from UK-based weekly magazine, Autocar.

London Motor Show runs 6-8 May in the British capital's Battersea Evolution.

London, UK - 5 May 2016

1. Wide of unveiling the all-new MG GS SUV at London Motor Show

2. Various of MG GS on display at London Motor Show

3. SOUNDBITE (English) Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing, MG Motor UK Ltd:

"For us, this is about affordable family fun. So, this is a great vehicle, it's a fun vehicle, it's a great vehicle to drive. It's also a great vehicle for the family and that's whether you're a small family or a big family, individuals or whatever, but also it's affordable. So when you look at the whole package, this is a vehicle that you're not only going to want to do things in - go and have great days out, go and have adventures and so on - but because it's affordable, you've still got spare money leftover to be able to go and do that."

4. Various of Riversimple Rasa hydrogen fuel cell car on display at London Motor Show

5. SOUNDBITE (English) Hugo Spowers, Company Architect of Riversimple:

"The car is designed with a 300-mile range not because we want people to do a 300-mile journey, but because it's designed to be at least a weeks' use of fuel for a local car. This is designed for the local vehicle market, a lot of people buy a car for local use and the great advantage for hydrogen of targeting that particular market niche is that you can create a commercial market with just one filling station."

6. Various of VUHL 05 lightweight supercar on display at London Motor Show

7. Setup shot of Mark Kent, Business and Development Director, Bespoke Performance, climbing into VUHL 05

8. Cutaway of 'VUHL' insignia on car

9. SOUNDBITE (English) Mark Kent, Owner and Director of Bespoke Performance:

"It's designed as a supercar built for the track and road. So the idea is you can drive it straight out of your garage, on the road, without trailing it to a track, but also seen as something a little bit special. So it's based on superb design and fantastic engineering, so really complex, almost aeronautical engineering, so honeycomb aluminium chassis bonded, really, really great attention to detail."

10. Various of McLaren 570GT on display at London Motor Show

11. SOUNDBITE (English) Jon Pollock, Managing Director of Europe Region, McLaren Automotive:

"It's much more kind of road-orientated and inspired and really built as a GT should be, so a grand tourer with a little bit of extra comfort for longer road journeys than say it's 570S counterpart, but really with none of the penalties in terms of overall performance. So you lose very little in terms of, for example 0-62 time, and the handling is just that little bit more comfortable for the longer runs, and of course with the unique rear-opening hatch and the panoramic roof, you've got a feeling of light and spaciousness that you don't get in a normal sports car."

12. Various of Mitsuoka Brooklands Roadster on display at London Motor Show

13. SOUNDBITE (English) Neil White, Managing Director of TW White & Sons:

"We decided to take the car, which is obviously a very classic-looking British sports car - and just try and tweak it so that it's got the wire wheels, it's got the bespoke leather, it's got the wooden interior so it celebrates everything there is to do with British motoring heritage."

14. Various high shots of London Motor Show floor

15. SOUNDBITE (English) James Beckwith, Autocar Magazine:

"Obviously the figures show that we've had the best March in 12 years and the fact that now we've got two motor shows if you include Goodwood is a good sign for the UK's car industry and its growth."

16. Various high shots of London Motor Show floor

CHINA AUTO SHOW

SHOTLIST:

Guangzhou, China - 22 November 2012

1. Pan of the red Lamborghini supercar at the Guangzhou Automobile Show

2. Mid of the side mirror of the red supercar

3. Wide of three Lamborghini supercars on display

4. Wide of Porsche's latest model "Panamera Platinum Edition" on display

5. Close of the logo of Porche

6. Zoom out of the front lights to the car on display

7. Mid of a car named "Fiat 500 by Gucci" on display at the Fiat's booth

8. Mid of side mirror of the car and the classic Gucci strip on the car

9. Shift focus of a silver word reading "Gucci" on the car

10. Wide of interior of the car, with Gucci logos on the seat

11. Close of Gucci logos on the seat

12. Mid of Fiat 500 by Gucci

13. Various of people at the automobile show

14. Various of dancers dancing on stage before a new car unveiling ceremony

15. Cutaway of a woman taking photos of the dancing

16. Wide of dancers unveiling a new car of Chinese manufacturer Brilliance Auto

17. Wide of Fiat's booth with cars on display

18. Mid of the latest model Viaggio

19. Close of side mirror of Viaggio

20. Pan from Jack Cheng to Viaggio

21. SOUNDBITE (English), Jack Cheng, General Manager of GAC Fiat Automobiles Co.:

"As of today, we launched the service brand which is trying to be elite service to all the customers. The strategy is to take care of the customer first. And, as you know, the brand itself is called "La Vita e Bella", really means the life is beautiful, if we want to make the life beautiful, we have to make sure that all the people surrounding us including our customers, our dealership, our suppliers have a wonderful life. So, we are taking care of the people in all aspects."

22. Close of logo of Fiat

23. SOUNDBITE (English), Jack Cheng, General Manager of GAC Fiat Automobiles Co.:

"This is really the future for the group; to be able to expand in Asia-Pacific. China is now the locomotive. And I believe that whatever is being done here is all globally approved and also aligned. I believe that China will be the future momentum."

24. Wide of the latest Ford cars "Kuga" on display at the Ford's booth

25. Tilt up of wheels of Kuga

26. Wide of Kuga on display

27. Setup of Marin Burela, President and CEO of Changan Ford Mazda Co.

28. SOUNDBITE (English), Marin Burela, President and CEO of Changan Ford Mazda Co.:

"The Chinese market in 2012 is running at around seven percent, a very strong and sustainable level of growth. Very different to what we saw a few years ago, with the growth was running at around that thirty percent level. But that was never really in our view, sustainable."

29. Wide pan right of Ford's card on display

30. Close of girls at the Ford's booth standing in front of cars

31. SOUNDBITE (English), Marin Burela, President and CEO of Changan Ford Mazda Co.:

"China is all about excitement around new products, it's all about bringing features and technology that the Chinese consumers truly value and want. It's a about being a low cost producer, delivering the greatest value in all areas of the...experience."

31. Wide of Nissan's booth

32. Wide of Nissan's latest model GTS TIDA on display

33. Shift focus of Nissan's logo

34. Wide of interior of GTS TIDA

35. Close tilt up of the wheel

36. Wide of two big screens being split on the stage, and Honda's robot Asimo coming out

37. Mid of Asimo on the stage

38. Cutaway of people taking photos of Asimo

39. Wide of Honda's Concept C car on display

40. Tilt up from the wheel to the back of the Concept C car

41. Wide of Honda's Concept C car on display

42. Wide of Buick's latest model "Encore" on display with the top of the car and doors open

43. Close of the back of Encore with artificial waterfront behind

44. Mid of people taking photos of Encore

45. Tilt up of doors of Encore to the top of Encore while they are being opened

46. Various of crowds

LEADIN

The Guangzhou Motor Show is big on luxury, speed and designer names.

It's one of the world's major automobile events and it attracts hundreds of business leaders and customers from across the globe.

STORYLINE

The Chinese are in love with supercars.

Despite signs that the bloom in the car industry is fading, supercars are very popular in China, with Lamborghinis occupying a special place at the 10th annual China (Guangzhou) International Automobile Exhibition, also known as Auto Guangzhou.

Porsche takes this opportunity to release its latest model: the "Panamera Platinum Edition", showing that auto markers are still optimistic about the future of the biggest market in the world.

Designer brands are favoured by the wealthy Chinese upper middle classes, and Fiat has come up with a nippy cross between the motor and the fashion worlds: It's the "Fiat 500 by Gucci", a co-branded car designed by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini in partnership with Fiat Group Style Centre last year.

The concept behind creating this crossover edition is the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy and Gucci's 90th anniversary.

But it's not all foreign supercars at Guangzhou.

Local manufacturers are here in big numbers, catching the visitors' attention with glitzy displays.

Chinese manufacturer Brilliance Auto puts on a dance show to unveil its new model.

Local and new producers are competing with established brands.

Many global automakers are expanding in China to counter stagnant markets at home.

Some 18.5 (m) million vehicles were sold in China last year and automakers expect that number to rise to 30 (m) million by 2020.

The show caps a year of relatively slow sales for carmakers in China, where competition is stiffening after years of white-hot growth.

China overtook the United States in 2009 as the world's biggest auto market by vehicles sold.

But growth has weakened sharply over the past year as the economy cooled and some cities imposed restrictions on ownership in response to smog and congestion.

Despite the slowdown, the country remains the world's biggest auto market, underscoring its importance to carmakers.

Fiat, a latecomer of the competition, believes China is the future.

They offer a series of elite services to their customers in China in an effort to grab a slice in the market.

Jack Cheng, General Manager of GAC Fiat Automobiles Co., explains:

"As of today, we launched the service brand which is trying to be elite service to all the customers. The strategy is to take care of the customer first. And, as you know, the brand itself is called "La Vita e Bella", really means the life is beautiful, if we want to make the life beautiful, we have to make sure that all the people surrounding us including our customers, our dealership, our suppliers have a wonderful life. So, we are taking care of the people in all aspects."

They also highlight the Viaggio; Fiat's first car produced in China, which went on sale in September.

"This is really the future for the group; To be able to expand in Asia-Pacific. China is now the locomotive. And I believe that whatever is being done here is all globally approved and also aligned. I believe that China will be the future momentum" Cheng adds.

Alongside Fiat is long established carmaker Ford.

Ford reveals its latest model Kuga in the show.

Marin Burela, President and CEO of Changan Ford Mazda Co., thinks that market growth in China will be more moderate from now on.

"The Chinese market in 2012 is running at around seven percent, a very strong and sustainable level of growth. Very different to what we saw a few years ago, with the growth was running at around that 30 percent level. But that was never really in our view, sustainable," Burela points out.

But he also believes the business will be on the right track as long as it can come up with new models and innovative technology.

"China is all about excitement around new products, it's all about bringing features and technology that the Chinese consumers truly value and want. It's a about being a low cost producer, delivering the greatest value in all areas of the motor experience," he says.

The beleaguered Japanese automakers have suffered sharp drops in their China sales since a territorial dispute over East China Sea islands flared in September, inflaming anti-Japanese sentiment and sparking sometimes violent protests.

But they do not shy away from showing off new models, going head to head with less established rivals sensing an opportunity to seize market share.

Guangzhou has traditionally been the southern Chinese stronghold of Japanese brands.

Nissan Motor Co., Toyota Motor Corp. and Honda Motor Co. are among the dozens of brands showcasing new vehicles at the auto show, the first major marketing event since the tensions flared in September.

Honda is showing the Concept C car which they hope to launch in 2014, while another Japanese brand - Nissan - puts their latest model GTS TIDA on display.

General Motor's luxury brand Buick is here too, exhibiting the Encore: an opulent crossover between a passenger car and a sport utility vehicle.

Auto Guangzhou runs from 23 November to 2 December.