The auto cognoscenti are gathered in Japan this week for the Tokyo Auto Show. All big, international car shows feature concept cars, but automakers have pulled out the stops at this one.

And the trend is clear - these cars combine non-polluting power packs with autonomous driving systems, painting a picture of a motoring tomorrow that's both emissions and hands free.

Our Wheel Thing pit boss, OC Register motor critic Susan Carpenter, ticks down some of the more interesting concept vehicles, and notes that many automakers are hoping these supertech designs will attract young people. So far, members of the smartphone generation - whether in Omaha or Osaka -  have exhibited a good deal of ennui when it comes to automobiles.

Carpenter also has a little preview of next month's big LA Auto Show.