IAA Frankfurt: Taking stock

Updated

After attracting record crowds of just under a million for the preceding motor show in 2007, 750,000 visitors were expected at the 63rd IAA. On the penultimate day, Saturday, attendance figures were a projected 850,000. The deficit was only half as big as was first feared. At the world's biggest motor show, 781 exhibitors from 30 countries presented the latest developments in the automotive and associated supply industries. Under the shadow of the economic crisis, there were 30% fewer companies present than at the last show two years ago. At this year's IAA, the focus was on eco-power units for cars. Most of the vehicles exhibited, however, be they e-cars, hybrids or hydrogen-powered, won't be available for another two to three years at the earliest.

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