An automobile on display at the 10th Viet Nam Motor Show 2014. The show has attracted 18 of the world's top autobile companies, and the three-day event which kicked off in HCM City yesterday is expected to attract 150,000 visitors. — VNA/VNS Photo The Anh

HA NOI — The 10th Viet Nam Motor Show 2014 (VMS) kicked off in HCM City yesterday and attracted 18 renowned automobile companies, the largest number of participants in any Vietnamese car show.

The three-day event featured world-famous brands such as Ford, GM, Honda and Mercedes-Benz, as well as Suzuki, Toyota, Mitsubishi and Nissan. Audi, BMW and Jaguar Land Rover likewise attended.

The show, which the Viet Nam Automobile Manufacturers Association (VAMA) organised, also introduced hundred of parts and accessories, as well as insurance and financing companies. It expects to attract 150,000 visitors.

"We hope the show will be a real chance for auto marketing and serve as a place for auto makers to showcase their latest products and technologies, as well as get feedback from customers," said VAMA chairman Jesus Metelo Arias.

Arias, also Ford Viet Nam's general director, added that auto makers would likewise be introducing the latest convenient and environment-friendly models to Vietnamese consumers.

Honda Viet Nam was the first car company to showcase its products yesterday morning, including the latest version of its City and Accord sedans, CR-V SUV and NXS-1 concept car.

Mitsubishi Motors, Honda's compatriot, brought to the show a wide range of products, including the hatchback, sedan, crossover and SUV, as well as pick-up and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.

British flagship brands Jaguar and Land Rover unveiled their latest version of Range Rover Sport, All-New Range Rover and Range Rover Evoque.

Auto parts and accessories suppliers also introduced advanced and environment-friendly products.

Last month, the country's 18 leading vehicle manufacturers sold a combined total of 14,938 units, a 45-per cent year-on-year increase that represents the 19th consecutive month that industry volume has been higher than that of the same period last year.

Sales from January to October increased by 40 per cent year-on-year to 121,648 units.

Meanwhile, from January to October, the country imported 51,000 cars worth $1.1 billion, a 76-per cent increase in quantity and 93-per cent increase in value year-on-year.

Viet Nam, which has a population of more than 90 million, has about two million cars and 37 million motorcycles. — VNS