During that time, we've seen concept cars of every shape, size and style – electrics and hybrids, shape shifters, autonomous commuters, motorcycle-cum-go karts and many more. If these concepts are any indication, the near future of car design will be very interesting.

With so many intriguing concepts on display, we're loath to choose a favorite. However, if pressed, we'd probably have to go with the Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA. 

Not only is this concept cut from the same dazzling show-car cloth as this year's F 015, but it features something we didn't see coming: a shape-shifting body kit that cuts the drag coefficient to 0.19, down around Volkswagen XL1 territory (0.186).

Another Frankfurt highlight sure to be on everyone's best of list, Porsche's Mission E shows a very clear vision of how Porsche's design and drive technology could evolve in the future. It packages a race-derived, high-voltage 600-hp powertrain inside a freshly styled body defined by matrix LED headlights and swooping, arched fenders.