The answer is simple – the introduction and development of alternative fuel that is cleaner and cheaper for motorized vehicles. With this clear vision, Michelin Tyre Company Group managing partner Edouard Michelin introduced the first Michelin Challenge Bibendum (MCB) in 1998 to showcase the technological progress made by car manufacturers in developing environmentally friend vehicles, which are proven in real-world conditions.

Seven years down the line, and staged in different venues around the world, it has proven to be a leading global event where significant advances in “Sustainable Mobility” – a catchphrase used in MCB – are showcased, with the goal to challenge car manufacturers to produce highly fuel-efficient vehicles, and even vehicles that run on alternative sources of energy.

Michelin Challenge Bibendum Forum held in Kyoto from June 8-9, 2005, significantly the birthplace of the Kyoto Protocol – the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change – over 50 carmakers and technology and energy suppliers hosted a vehicle and technology display at the Kyoto International Conference Hall in conjunction with the Bibendum Forum and Rally.

The vehicle line-up comprised a wide variety of technologies that contribute to reducing both local and global pollution thus improving environmental protection. Several of the models demonstrated the progress that has been made in the evolution of the Internal Combustion Engine, Volkswagen and Audi vehicles (Touareg, Golf, A8) with diesel articulate filters, a Honda Accord in both diesel and gasoline hybrid version, and the Nissan X-Trail FCV with its ultra-low emission.

Electric-powered vehicles from Showa Aircraft using sodium sulphur batteries, the electric motor and Li-on battery-powered sports model of the Venturi, and fuel-cell-powered technology models from DaimlerChrysler, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Toyota were some highlights of the display.

CNG and LNG alternative fuel vehicles from the Japan Gas Association including a Hino truck, and LPG Vehicle Promotion Association addressed issues of security of fuel supply and reduced emissions. The world’s first commercial is basis truck tractor, the QUON Nissan, with Urea selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system, which helps in the reduction of nitrogen and exhausted fumes.