The Tokyo event, which is being held for the first time in 4 years, includes a wider variety of transport — or "mobility" — options than in the past. Its exhibits go well beyond what most would consider typical vehicles to give people a glimpse into the future.
Toyota Motor is introducing a concept car for a next-generation EV set for launch in 2026 under its Lexus brand.
Toyota Motor President Sato Koji said his company is committed to offering battery-powered vehicles "that only an established carmaker can produce."
Nissan Motor is showing off its concept car fitted with all-solid-state batteries, whose capacity can be enhanced to allow the car to travel longer distances.
Honda Motor is showcasing a new EV model developed with US auto giant General Motors. They aim to launch it in the US market next year.
Japan automakers try to catch up in EVs
Japanese carmakers have been ramping up their shift to EVs as they try to catch up to global advances.
Research firm MarkLines said EV sales of US electric vehicle maker Tesla topped those of all other companies in the world last year, with more than 1.2 million units sold. China's BYD was second, selling more than 860,000 units.
Only two Japanese makers — Nissan Motor and Mitsubishi Motors — made the top-10 list together with their French alliance partner Renault. Their joint project came in seventh.
Japanese automakers hope to use the Mobility Show to showcase how far they have come.
For more: Japanese automakers retool EV strategies
Future of vehicles
This year's event attracted a record 475 participants. Its exhibits also feature a range of unusual and unorthodox vehicles, including some which can fly.
One startup developed a vehicle it claims can stay in space for about an hour.
Online marketplace Mercari is displaying a sofa filled with air. It said the item is so soft that it cushions the body and protects it from serious damage if the vehicle hits something by accident while driving.
The Japan Mobility Show is open to the public through November 5.