Automechanika Shanghai celebrated its 20th anniversary with an exceptional edition, breaking records in exhibitor and visitor participation while highlighting key trends and innovations shaping the future of the automotive industry. Held from 2 to 5 December 2024 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai, the event provided a dynamic platform for collaboration, learning, and growth.
Record-Breaking Participation
This year’s event welcomed 222,341 visitors from 181 countries and regions, a remarkable 20% increase from the previous year. International participation surged, with 28% of visitors arriving from overseas. The exhibitor count also reached new heights, with 6,763 companies from 40 countries and regions showcasing their innovations across 350,000 square meters of exhibition space.
The event featured 17 country and region pavilions, including Australia, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the UAE, further enhancing its global appeal. Approximately 300 million viewers joined the action through livestreams on AMS Live and partner platforms.
Innovation and Sustainability take Centre Stage
Automechanika Shanghai placed a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability. Ms. Fiona Chiew, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, commented: “For 20 years, Automechanika Shanghai has continued to create channels for collaboration and communication. This year, the increase in participation, along with high levels of internationalism, reflects the growing status and deeper integration of the Chinese automotive industry with international markets.”
Ms. Li Zhang, General Manager of China National Machinery Industry International Co Ltd, added: “The show delivered on its idea of innovation and transformation towards a sustainable future throughout the week. Sustainable technologies were at the forefront of the show through the fringe programme events and special zones. With total vehicle sales and new energy vehicle sales in China expected to reach 31 million and 11.5 million units respectively in 2024, innovative approaches are as crucial as ever.”
Highlights from Expanded Sectors
The event responded to major shifts in the industry by enhancing its product sectors and specialised zones. The Parts & Components sector featured 3,540 exhibitors, including renowned names like Bosch, ZF, and Continental. Bosch showcased a thermal management system for new energy vehicles, while ZF introduced its Sachs Air Struts.
The New Energy & Connectivity sector debuted with 477 exhibitors in a dedicated 26,000 square meter space, addressing the surge in demand for electric and hydrogen-powered technologies. Companies like HESAI demonstrated cutting-edge LiDAR technology, while Shedrive introduced electric drive innovations.
The Accessories and Customising sectors also drew significant attention, with companies like BOP showcasing dual-core energy-gathering solar films and Japanese brand Idemitsu presenting car care solutions for electric vehicles.
The event fostered valuable connections between domestic and international participants. Mr. Wei Han, Marketing & Sales Manager at AUTOBACS (China) Auto Goods Commerce Co Ltd, noted: “The fair empowers businesses and strengthens connections between domestic and overseas markets. As the show becomes more international, more overseas buyers are eager to engage in face-to-face discussions.”
Mr. Paul McCarthy, President & CEO of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, highlighted the event’s role in addressing industry challenges and fostering partnerships.
“The aftermarket thrives on innovation, collaboration, and technology, with trade shows playing a crucial role in fostering partnerships. Automechanika Shanghai highlights challenges and opportunities, emphasising the demand for knowledge and connection.”
A Celebration of 20 Years
The 20th-anniversary celebrations included special initiatives like Walk for Nature, which tracked 100 million steps taken by attendees and contributed over RMB 100,000 to tree-planting efforts. Meanwhile, the Customising x Tech Area hosted a thrilling Quest for a Racing Master contest, showcasing motorsports culture.
Fringe programmes featured over 400 speakers across 81 events, discussing themes such as internationalisation, digitalisation, and sustainability. Ms. Jingjing Chen, Secretary General of the CCCME Automobile Branch, praised the events, saying, “The overall organisation, including the quality of speakers and their presentations, was professional and comprehensive.”
Looking Ahead
Automechanika Shanghai’s 20th-anniversary edition underscored its role as a transformative platform for the automotive industry, blending innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. The next edition will take place from 26 to 29 November 2025, promising another milestone in its illustrious history.
If you’re thinking about attending the next event, visit Automechanika Shanghai.
