20th Automechanika Shanghai Attracts Record Participation

Automechanika Shanghai 2024 was marked by new exhibitor and visitor records, with the fair serving as a hub for buyers and suppliers to learn, network and showcase the innovations shaping the future automotive industry.

The event hosted 222,341 visitors from 181 countries and regions along with 6,763 exhibitors from 40 countries and regions – all increases of 20 per cent on previous show figures. There were also 17 international pavilions hosting exhibitors from Australia, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Poland, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkiye, the UAE, UK and US.

Additionally, the show covered 350,000 square metres of exhibition space and hosted approximately 300 million livestream views on online platforms.

The event featured the most comprehensive fringe programme to date with more than 400 speakers across 81 events. Key discussions focused on internationalisation, digitalisation, talent development, and sustainability in the automotive sector.

While topics mainly focused on understanding the Chinese market, the presentations also examined wider information in global operating environments, helping audiences to self-reflect on current and future company strategies.

“For 20 years, Automechanika Shanghai has continued to create channels for collaboration and communication,” said Fiona Chiew, General Manager of co-event organiser Messe Frankfurt. “This year, the increase of participation along with high levels of internationalism reflects the growing status and deeper integration of the Chinese automotive industry with international markets. It is always a privilege to hear of such positive feedback from our customers, especially in their recognition of how we continue to leverage our past experiences to create new content and a stronger platform to meet current and future needs.”

Li Zhang, General Manager of co-event organiser China National Machinery Industry International Co, said the event highlighted innovation and the transformation towards a sustainable future. “Sustainable technologies were at the forefront of the show through the fringe programme events and special zones. With total vehicles sales and new energy vehicle sales within China expected to reach 31 million and 11.5 million units in 2024 respectively, innovative approaches are as crucial as ever. The fair acted as a valuable setting for gaining insights into these developments,” said Li.

In response to significant changes in the automotive industry, the fair expanded its major product sectors and specialised zones.

In the Diagnostics & Repair / Body & Paint sector in Halls 5.2 and 6.2, Launch exhibited the first domestic X-431 PAD “artificial intelligent” equipment for the diagnostic and maintenance of new energy vehicles, while BESITA introduced industry-first intelligent chassis testing equipment which can be operated through WeChat.

Parts & Components encompassed six halls and 3,540 exhibitors, while the New Energy & Connectivity sector in Hall 5.1 debuted to a strong reception with 477 exhibitors housed across 26,000 square metres of space. The area featured products, technologies and solutions such as core electric components and sensors, hydrogen energy and fuel cells, battery charging and swapping, connectivity, intelligent driving and chassis, and thermal management for new energy.