ASIA NIKKEI
 
Competition is growing in Southeast Asia's car market. Japanese automakers began setting up factories in the region in the 1960s. The head start is one reason why Japanese cars enjoy 80% market share in Southeast Asia.
 
European and U.S. automakers are trying to catch up. Manufacturers from emerging economies such as China and India also want a piece of the action. Southeast Asians buy 3.5 million vehicles every year, close to Brazilians' purchases and more than those of Indians and Russians.
 
As car ownership spreads in Southeast Asia, automaker rivalries will intensify.
 
Is the end of the "Japanese auto empire" nigh?