Ford, General Motors and Chrysler have pulled out of the Tokyo Motor Show to save costs as this year's event hangs in the balance.
Automotive News reports that the three carmakers will not be presenting exhibits at the bi-annual show, stating the money would be better spent elsewhere.
The news comes amid reports that the Japanese Automobile Manufacturers Association is debating whether to go ahead with the event fearing the withdrawal of several more key exhibitors.
Many non-Japanese manufacturers are said to have expressed reservations about participating in this year's show, while some Japanese exhibitors are proposing that the event be cancelled.
The theme for this year's Tokyo Motor Show, which is scheduled for October 23 to November 8, is "fun driving for us, eco driving for earth".
According to Automotive News, the show's steering committee will announce its decision to postpone the show, or continue with it, by early next month.
Some mainstream manufacturers, including Nissan, Porsche, Suzuki and Land Rover, were absent from this year's Detroit Motor Show citing a need to conserve cash.