Automobile Council 2025 took place at Makuhari Messe from April 11 to 13, marking its 10th edition. The event gathered over 130 exhibitors and presented 186 vehicles, attracting attendees from across Japan and abroad. Hosted at Exhibition Halls 9 to 11, the event aimed to showcase the evolution of automotive culture and design, including heritage vehicles, concept models, and aftermarket innovations.
One of the key figures featured at the event was Giorgetto Giugiaro, regarded internationally for his contributions to automotive design. Giugiaro appeared in two talk sessions during the exhibition and was the focus of a curated display, “Designed by Giugiaro,” which presented 10 of his signature works. The lineup included models such as the Volkswagen Golf Mk1, BMW M1, Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA, DeLorean DMC-12, and the Fiat Panda. His visit to Japan was his first in over a decade.
Beyond the main exhibitions, a number of manufacturer-backed displays and curated booths addressed themes such as motorsports, car design history, and aftermarket customization. Several imported car brands participated alongside domestic manufacturers, and vendors ranging from parts suppliers to lifestyle brands were present.
The event also featured a collection of cars from the “golden age of rally” in Japan, with vehicles such as the Lancia Stratos HF, Audi Quattro, and Mini Cooper S. Alongside these, concept cars from previous decades were presented to explore how design trends have shifted over time.
An art program was also held in parallel with the car displays, with gallery UG organizing a multi-booth exhibition space that included automotive-themed artwork and multimedia installations. This section included collaborations between visual artists and musicians, and was intended to expand the cultural scope of the show.
According to organizers, this yearās edition saw its highest number of exhibitors and participating vehicles to date. Attendance was strong throughout the weekend, with visitors including both long-time collectors and younger fans of car culture. Although detailed demographic data was not released at time of writing, the event appeared to draw a wide range of ages and interests.
Automobile Council has become a recurring fixture in the Japanese automotive calendar, with organizers indicating plans to continue expanding the event’s programming and partnerships in the future. While its focus remains on preserving and showcasing the heritage of car design, recent editions have increasingly included contemporary themes such as sustainability, digital design processes, and crossovers with fashion and the arts.
For additional information and future event updates, refer to the official website: automobile-council.com
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