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  World on wheels: see all the latest automotive technology and design at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. Photo Gallery

• Video: Frankfurt Motor Show Highlights

Frankfurt Motor Show is one of the world?s biggest and most important car shows.

The Frankfurt Motor Show literally roared to life this morning when a classic BMW 507 roadster ran laps of a custom-built oval track inside the German carmaker's $30 million stand. The historical link was tapped as BMW Group also used a giant birthday cake to celebrate the 50th birthday of the Mini.

But the real messages for BMW at the show were simple - green cars with style and personality. From the baby Mini coupe and convertible to the first public appearance of the $400,000 Rolls-Royce Ghost, BMW Group went all-out to impress as Europe's carmakers did their best to ignore the effects of the global economic meltdown.

The global car industry is filled with green shoots but the stands at Frankfurt look more like a flower show with bright new blossoms and plenty of sweet smelling attractions.

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