Automechanika Frankfurt preview 24 Automechanika Frankfurt set to showcase the future of the automotive aftermarket Chris Callander offers a round-up of the highlights set to make Automechanika Frankfurt a valuable destination for the aftermarket trade this September. Over the page, you will find selected highlights from exhibitors attending the event. One hundred years ago, visitors to a trade exhibition in Frankfurt were introduced to something that would eventually become a familiar part of everyday life – the city’s first traffic light. While that pioneering piece of traffic management technology might seem a long way removed from today’s connected vehicles and software-driven mobility systems, it serves as a reminder of how quickly automotive technology can evolve. Fast forward a century and Automechanika Frankfurt is once again preparing to put the future of mobility and the aftermarket under the spotlight when the event returns from 8-12 September 2026. Positioned as the world’s leading trade fair for the automotive service industry, the event continues to attract manufacturers, suppliers, workshops, retailers and service providers from around the globe. And this year’s edition places a particular emphasis on the technologies, skills and business opportunities that are expected to shape the aftermarket over the coming years. One of the most significant developments for 2026 is a new partnership between Automechanika Frankfurt and the Association of International Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (VDIK). Through the new Road to Automechanika initiative, the organisations are encouraging discussion around some of the biggest topics facing the sector, including vehicle data, aftermarket business models, fleet services, accident repair management and the wider mobility transition. Future technologies will also feature prominently at the event. A new HighTech4Mobility forum will explore topics including software-defined vehicles, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), autonomous driving, cybersecurity, data management and in-car entertainment. The aim is to bring together software specialists, vehicle manufacturers, suppliers and aftermarket businesses to discuss how these developments could influence future workshop operations and service opportunities. Away from the conference programme, visitors will find plenty of opportunities to see technology in action. The new Automechanika Pitlane promises live motorsport demonstrations and appearances, while the Experience Park will feature attractions including monster trucks, a Unimog course and a vehicle rollover simulator. The Future Mobility Park will also offer test drives in electric and alternative-fuel vehicles. Classic vehicles are set to enjoy a higher profile too. Through the newly established Classic Alliance, supported by organisations including FIVA, Bosch, DAT, Eucon and ROWE, Automechanika is looking to strengthen links between the classic vehicle sector and the wider aftermarket. With growing interest in restoration, maintenance and specialist services, the initiative aims to highlight potential opportunities for workshops and retailers while providing a platform for networking and knowledge sharing. The future workforce is another major focus for the event. Following its debut in 2024, AMBITION returns in a larger format and moves into Frankfurt’s iconic Festhalle. Designed to engage younger generations with automotive careers, the initiative combines interactive activities, workshops, live talks and demonstrations with input from industry associations, employers and education providers. Visitors attending on the opening day will also have the chance to hear from explorer, innovator and sustainability advocate Dr Bertrand Piccard during the event’s CEO Breakfast. His keynote address will focus on innovation, sustainable technologies and the opportunities created by technological change, before industry leaders from companies including Castrol, Continental, Mann + Hummel, Schaeffler and ZF discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. Alongside these new features, exhibitors will be showcasing the latest developments in areas including electrics and electronics, battery technology, charging infrastructure, thermal management and connected vehicle systems. Whether visitors are looking for technical insight, new business opportunities or simply a better understanding of where the aftermarket is heading next, Frankfurt looks set to offer plenty of reasons to make the trip. tinyurl.com/3yf3ncv8
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