Over the past 20 years, Automechanika Shanghai has grown into a vital hub for innovation, global collaboration, and market adaptation. The event not only reflects the evolution of the automotive sector in China but also showcases the broader development of the Automechanika brand, which now spans 14 shows across the globe, including the thriving Dubai show.
From its roots as a biannual event to its current status as a global powerhouse, Automechanika Shanghai exemplifies the evolution of the Automechanika brand, as well as the wider automotive aftermarket. In between walking the vast halls of the Shanghai exhibition centre and getting the most of a packed programme celebrating it’s 20th anniversary, T&FME was able to listen to the Automechanika leadership team’s thoughts on the aftermarket’s biggest event line-up and how they are adapting to a rapidly evolving automotive industry.
At a commemorative press conference, three key leaders of the Automechanika family—Michael Johannes, Vice President of Automechanika; Olaf Musshoff, Director of Automechanika Frankfurt; and Fiona Chiew, General Manager of Automechanika Shanghai — offered insights into the show’s legacy and its dynamic response to the challenges of a rapidly changing global market.
Launched in 1971, Automechanika has become synonymous with the automotive aftermarket, standing on four pillars: innovation, sustainability, transformation, and education and training. Over time, the brand has expanded its footprint to include 14 shows, each tailored to the unique needs of its region.
With its focus on innovation, sustainability, and education, the lead team at Automechanika certainly feel the line-up of international and regional events ensures the brand is well-positioned to lead the industry into the future, fostering collaboration and driving progress on a global scale.
Michael Johannes emphasised the adaptability of the brand, which has allowed it to thrive despite global challenges.
“Automechanika is a strong and resilient brand. We have strategically expanded to emerging markets like Central Asia and launched shows that reflect the evolving needs of the industry,” he said. Johannes highlighted the brand’s ability to create platforms for collaboration, noting that the growth of its events underscores their importance in connecting businesses across diverse markets. Johannes also touched on the brand’s growing global influence.
“We’ve even seen competitors attempting to imitate us, which we view as a testament to our success. But what sets Automechanika apart is our commitment to delivering innovation, sustainability, and high-quality content to our participants.”
Automechanika Shanghai, which debuted in 2004, was initially a biannual event. However, as Fiona Chiew explained, the rapid development of China’s automotive sector necessitated a shift to an annual format.
“The Chinese market developed at such a pace that we needed to respond to the growing demand for sourcing and export opportunities,” she said. Today, Automechanika Shanghai stands as one of the largest automotive aftermarket shows in the world. Its 20th-anniversary edition featured 6,763 exhibitors from 40 countries, 222,341 visitors from 181 regions, and 17 international pavilions. The show’s scale and diversity underscore its importance as a bridge between China and the global automotive industry.
Chiew highlighted the event’s role in showcasing China’s leadership in new energy vehicles (NEVs). “This year marks the first time that NEV sales in China have surpassed traditional combustion engine vehicles. Automechanika Shanghai reflects this shift by prioritising sectors like new energy and connectivity, providing platforms for innovations in battery management, hydrogen fuel cells, and digitalisation,” she said.
In an era dominated by digital communication and virtual trade shows, Automechanika Shanghai’s record-breaking attendance underscores the enduring importance of in-person exhibitions. Michael Johannes reflected on the unique value that exhibitions bring to the automotive aftermarket.
“The pandemic forced us to question whether our business model would remain relevant”
“The pandemic forced us to question whether our business model would remain relevant. What we’ve learned is that face-to-face interaction is irreplaceable,” he said. “People need to see products, discuss ideas, and build trust. The digital world can facilitate communication, but it can’t replicate the tangible experiences and personal connections that exhibitions provide.”
Johannes pointed to the rise in attendance as evidence of pent-up demand for in-person networking: “2024 was a test of whether people still value these events, and the response has been overwhelming. Exhibitors and visitors alike recognise that these shows are essential for building partnerships and staying ahead in a competitive market.”
Olaf Musshoff echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of quality over quantity. “It’s not just about the numbers — it’s about attracting the right people. Decision-makers, industry leaders, and innovators come to Automechanika because they know they’ll find meaningful opportunities here,” he said. Sustainability has emerged as a cornerstone of the Automechanika brand, with both Frankfurt and Shanghai integrating this theme into their programming.
At Automechanika Frankfurt, the Sustainability Forum provides a platform for discussions on reducing emissions, developing green technologies, and improving supply chain efficiency. “We brought together industry leaders to address pressing sustainability challenges and opportunities,” Musshoff said. In Shanghai, sustainability was showcased through the Innovation4Mobility sector, which featured advancements in hydrogen fuel cells, battery technology, and electric drive systems. Chiew noted that these innovations align with China’s broader goals of becoming a global leader in NEV production and reducing its carbon footprint.
The show also introduced visitor programmes designed to guide participants through specialised themes, such as sustainable mobility and digital transformation. “We created curated routes that allow visitors to explore specific product lines and services, ensuring they maximise their time at the event,” Chiew said.
As the automotive industry grapples with a talent shortage, Automechanika is actively working to attract younger professionals. In Shanghai, initiatives such as motorsport simulator contests and live-streamed content were introduced to engage younger audiences.
“We need to inspire the next generation to join the industry”
“We need to inspire the next generation to join the industry,” Chiew said. “These programmes not only attract young talent but also provide opportunities for existing professionals to upskill, particularly in areas like NEV maintenance and repair.” Musshoff echoed this sentiment, highlighting Frankfurt’s efforts to create welcoming environments for networking and social interaction. “We want attendees to feel connected—not just as professionals, but as individuals. Our events provide spaces for meaningful interactions that go beyond business.”
Education and training remain integral to Automechanika’s mission. Johannes stressed the importance of these initiatives in preparing the industry for its ongoing transformation. “Whether it’s training workshops for NEV maintenance or seminars on digitalisation, education is key to ensuring the aftermarket remains competitive,” he said. Chiew added that the need for training extends across generations.
“The transition to NEVs isn’t just about new talent—it’s also about equipping existing professionals with the skills they need to adapt,” she said.
Looking to the future, the Automechanika brand is poised to continue its leadership in the automotive aftermarket. Johannes pointed to the increasing complexity of the industry as both a challenge and an opportunity. “With the rise of NEVs, autonomous vehicles, and digitalisation, the aftermarket is becoming more complex. Automechanika’s role is to provide the tools, knowledge, and platforms the industry needs to navigate this complexity,” he said.
“Our goal is to ensure that Automechanika Shanghai continues to be a hub for innovation and collaboration”
Chiew highlighted the importance of maintaining Automechanika Shanghai’s global appeal. “As we celebrate 20 years, we remain committed to bridging the gap between domestic and international markets. Our goal is to ensure that Automechanika Shanghai continues to be a hub for innovation and collaboration.”
