Clarion Events, the organisers of the London Motor Show, has unveiled the results of its £1 million additional investment in the show which will see cars exhibited in their respective size segments rather than on individual manufacturers' stands.

The aim is to help visitors compare like with like by arranging cars of a particular sector on individual 'showcase stands'.

Ten core showcases are planned initially, covering the full range of cars on sale in the UK. For example, the medium-size car showcase will feature the best-selling C-segment cars. Other showcases will feature city cars (sub-B), small (B), family (C/D), small executives (C/D), large executives (D/E), 4x4s, MPVs, coupes and convertibles, performance and luxury cars.

In addition to these core areas there is the potential to explore showcases for types of vehicles not usually on display at the show such as two-wheel, recreational, classic and light commercial vehicles.

"This is a massively compelling idea that benefits all parties concerned with the show," said Mark Saunders, director of the London Motor Show.

"Visitors will be able to view the new cars they are interested in, in a much more focussed environment. It will also help budget-conscious manufacturers to display their products to the new car-buying British public in an incredibly cost-effective way. This will allow exhibitors to take advantage of the audience of 370,000 visitors who attend the London Motor Show.

"The decision by a number of manufacturers not to attend the show brought about this rethink but I firmly believe that these very positive actions will change the history of motor shows. It is an inspired concept and I'm very pleased to say that we have already had a fantastic response from the vehicle manufacturers.

“In fact, many of those who originally dropped out of the show are now changing their minds because we have managed to come up with a compelling solution that suits their budgets."

Examples of the showcases:
City: Ford Ka, Vauxhall Agila
Small: Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa
Medium: Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra
Family: Ford Mondeo, Vauxhall Vectra
Small Executive: BMW 3-Series, Audi A4

The London Motor Show 2001 takes place at Earls Court from 17-28 October. For further information and ticket sales, see www.londonmotorshow.net