Schaeffler had a very impressive stand at Automechanika Birmingham which was a genuine hub of activity throughout the three days of the event. Located in the OESAA village, the stand offered visitors a glimpse of the ‘garage of tomorrow’ and had a Schaeffler BMW M4 DTM car as a striking centre piece.

Schaeffler Aftermarket Marketing and Communications Manager, Jeff Earl, said that the stand was “One of the most exciting, interactive and innovative visitor experiences we have ever produced.” Using both augmented and mixed reality exhibits, visitors could get an insight into the technical ‘helpline’ of the future. Wearing goggles, which relayed heads-up instructions, technicians were able to carry out a simulated timing chain replacement using real tools and components, or learn about the inner workings of a dual mass flywheel.

Switching to augmented reality, visitors were able to use an iPad to scan each individual component of a complete FAG chassis system, breaking down and exploring each single part using images and videos, as well as giving lots of hints and tips.

Automechanika Birmingham was also the perfect platform for Schaeffler to launch the REPXPERT app and to entertain hundreds of Schaeffler and REPXPERT VIPs, who were treated to an informative presentation and audio tour. Many of the garage visitors were also able to enter the INA Torque Challenge competition. Schaeffler gave away eight torque wrenches every day to technicians that performed the best after learning about the importance of using correct torque settings.

TV presenter and mechanic Edd China also visited the stand on Wednesday and Thursday to sign his new book, Grease Junkie and to tour the stand to see if there was any innovative Schaeffler technology that he could incorporate into his next project.