Every motor show is jam-packed with plush supercars, glamorous catwalk models, large fanfares, bright lights and all the razzmatazz you could wish for and this year’s Frankfurt event was no different. The crowds flooded in to see the latest cars being unveiled and listened keenly as company executives announced the models. But away from all the glitz and crazed long-lens photographers are plenty of interesting concept vehicles to be explored, ranging from models featuring state-of-the-art innovative technology to more recognisable vehicles that have been pimped up to the nines.

Here are just a few of the models that caught our eye at Frankfurt’s show this year:

The ROboMObil

This somewhat unusual looking two-seater concept can literally turn on a sixpence and can even be driven sideways or diagonally.

The driver can give directions from the cockpit or via a remote control and the ROMO, as it’s affectionately called, uses advanced computer algorithms to process data from up to eight pairs of stereo cameras.

It’s these cameras which provide a 360-degree 3D view around the car.

The Mercedes-Benz “Concept IAA”

IAA stands for Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile and this concept model is two cars in one combining world class aerodynamics with a four-door coupe design package.

It has similar dimensions to the massive and very luxurious S-Class and actually changes shape depending on the speed.  At less than 80km/h it is just like a premium executive model, but exceed that limit and the car’s length extends by more than 15 inches to enhance the aerodynamics and create what just might be the ultimate dream car.

Citroen Aircross

This concept is a hint at what’s to come from the French brand and is a clear indication of just how far the looks and technology of the C4 Cactus can be transformed.

It was the Cactus model that grabbed the headlines when it launched into the crossover segment last year and now the Aircross is looking to shake up the SUV market with its rugged styling and instant attention-grabbing appeal.

The Twike

This unusual looking vehicle which is powered by an electric motor has a top speed of 85km/h and a potential range that exceeds 500km. It can be used as a cabriolet when the sun puts in an appearance or fully covered during wetter weather.

The Twike has a joystick for steering with fingertip controls for acceleration, turning signals and brakes – all in one hand because the on-board computer passes the driver’s commands on to the Twike’s electronic brain.  And you can save energy by cycling, but apparently you do have to be quite fit! To date the Leipzig-based company has sold about 1,200 units worldwide

Quadix diesel UTV 

This vehicle is powered by a three-cylinder German Perkins diesel engine and delivers four-wheel-drive capabilities.

It is a joint venture between a German business which has been working in conjunction with a Chinese company to create tractor-based vehicles that can be adapted to suit buyer’s requirements.

It took about two years to develop and already there have been sales in Ireland, and the South of England. But the biggest markets so far for the vehicle which costs almost 14,000 Euros are Germany and Austria.

SEAT Leon Cross Sport

Based on the Leon Cupra, this concept car is a perfect blend of coupe-like styling and compact sports car performance.

The 300PS two-litre engine delivers a 0-62mph sprint time of just 4.9 seconds.

It is expected that a final decision will be made in the coming days about whether or not the stylish  Cross Sport  model will go into production … we hope so.

Garia Mansory OFF-X

This rather upmarket vehicle could be just the inspiration needed to take up golf.

Inspired by luxurious conversions of the Mercedes G-Class, Mansory and Garia decided to give the golf and leisure buggy a thorough technical update turning it into a comfortable off-road vehicle.

It features larger wheels, a wider track, new fenders and it comes fitted with more powerful brakes and a new transmission system.

And while the vehicle is currently just a show car if demand is high enough it will be available in a limited series as with previous Garia Mansory collaborations.

Porsche Mission E

This is the first all-electrically powered four seat sports car in Porsche’s history.

It combines all the dynamic styling associated with the German marque with the practicality of the first 800-volt drive system.  The four door, four individual seat, all-wheel-drive model has a range exceeding 500km, can sprint from 0-62mph in 3.5 seconds and takes just 15 minutes to charge to 80 per cent.

SsangYong XLV AIR

This is a pre-production showing of the Tivoli Long which is actually scheduled to go on sale next year.

It blends SsangYong’s distinctive SUV body design with dynamic styling cues such as a floating roofline. But the standout factor is space with the vehicle boasting a boot capacity of 720 litres which is quite a step up from the 423 litres offered on the standard Tivoli.

Peugeot Fractal

This is the French brand’s premium electric car.  It’s billed as a city coupe model and has a range of 280 miles before it needs charging up.

The interior features numerous surfaces that were created using 3D technology and it also boasts an incredible audio system with the seats helping to accentuate the bass sounds.

Now that sort of innovation proves this truly is a state-of-the-art concept vehicle.

Jeep Wrangler

The standard Jeep Wrangler has always been an attractive option for anyone who enjoys the active lifestyle. But this version, created especially for the show, really ups the ante with extra kit added by Mopar.

The colour is unique and according to Guillaume Drelon, who was representing Jeep on the stand: “Wrangler is a toy and this is a toy. It’s fun and expressive and shows just how far you can go and how expressive you can be with a Jeep Wrangler.”