FRANKFURT: Automakers put last minute touches to their fancy displays at the 63rd Frankfurt Auto Show yesterday, ready to show off future and current models in a bid to kick start sales amid a slowly improving global economy.

Many were looking years down the road by unveiling their latest electric models that are designed to go faster and farther.

Companies from Volkswagen AG to Hyundai Motor Co displayed their latest models in the cavernous exhibition space at the show, but the buzz centered on designs that eschew traditional gas engines in favor of more environmentally friendly electric motors or a hybrid blend of both.