This year's Automechanika Frankfurt, from 14 to 16 September, will be unlike any other with its once-only ‘Digital Plus’ format.

Under the new format, in addition to a compact physical exhibition, Automechanika’s primary focus is on offering all participants the opportunity to network and present their companies digitally. The new offer, which is currently being introduced to the industry, reduces trade fair preparations to a minimum. Next year, the international trade fair will return to its familiar format on the Frankfurt exhibition grounds from 13 to 17 September 2022.

Organisers have decided to change course regarding preparations for the first-ever hybrid Automechanika, at least for the physical exhibition. Detlef Braun, Member of the Executive Board of Messe Frankfurt said, “As a result of the continuing difficulties posed by the pandemic, we will not be able to satisfy our customers’ expectations for a leading international trade fair this September. Not only does the event require official approvals, but it also has to be possible to travel internationally. Yet this does not change the automotive industry's need for a platform where they can do business this year and our customers and industry associations agree. That is why we decided to modify our concept for this year’s Automechanika, offering opportunities to exhibit and network in person on the exhibition grounds while keeping preparations, risks and costs to a minimum.”

The new concept offers companies a range of presentation formats from which to choose, as well as various networking lounges where in-person business encounters can take place in accordance with the applicable Coronavirus protection measures. Companies that are unable to travel to Frankfurt due to travel restrictions can present their products on a digital platform, where they will also be able to meet and network with visitors digitally.

For the first time, exhibitors will have the chance to live stream their latest products and innovations. All participants benefit from digital matchmaking and the scheduling tools, as well as facilities for live chats and 1:1 video calls. Most of the videos, as well as the exhibitors’ product information and company profiles, will remain online even after the event has finished.

The exhibition will be centred around the Festhalle in the eastern part of the exhibition grounds. An innovation show, networking area and product promenade are also planned as well as a ‘Future Mobility Park’ an innovative test and experience circuit located outdoors at the heart of the exhibition grounds to showcase solutions for tomorrow’s mobility.

Next door in the Festhalle, Hypermotion will be taking place at the same time as Automechanika. This will be the first time that users and developers from the fields of mobility and logistics are brought together here with the automotive aftermarket.