MAKUHARI, Chiba Pref. -- The 33rd Tokyo Motor Show is set to begin Saturday, bringing together automobile enthusiasts, automakers and auto parts manufacturers from around the world.

The biennial event is a forum for thinking about the future relationship between cars and environment, according to the Japan Motor Industrial Federation.

The 1999 show features only passenger cars and motorbikes; the exclusion of commercial vehicles reflects participants' criticism that the event had become so big it was difficult to see everything in one day.

Automakers from around the globe are displaying their latest models, those to be marketed in the near future and concept cars, including experimental models.

Ahead of the opening ceremonies Friday, reporters from around the world got a sneak peek Wednesday at the future of cars and motorcycles.

Reflecting growing environmental consciousness in the industry, automakers will demonstrate environmentally friendlier vehicles such as hybrid and experimental fuel- cell cars.

There will also be a special exhibit on the history of the Japanese motor industry, as the 33rd motor show coincides with the centennial of the first car in the country. Automakers are displaying 29 cars and 17 motorcycles that were introduced between 1932 and 1985.

The motor show opens to the public from Saturday through Nov. 3 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba Prefecture. About 1.5 million visitors are expected.