Nearly 4,400 exhibitors from more than 80 countries and over 100,000 trade visitors gathered in Frankfurt to explore the future direction of the automotive industry. As one of the aftermarket sector's most important international meeting places, Automechanika 2026 once again brought together key industry players in Germany's fifth-largest city. This year's event focused on the impact of electromobility, digitalisation and artificial intelligence, while Hungarian companies and their innovative solutions also attracted considerable international attention.
New directions for the automotive industry
The automotive industry has always been about more than mobility. For many people, a coveted car is not just a means of transport, but also a milestone, a status symbol and a personal achievement. At the same time, it is easy to overlook the highly complex ecosystem behind every vehicle. A modern car is the result of the seamless integration of thousands of carefully engineered components, advanced technologies and sophisticated systems. The development, production and maintenance of these components form the real backbone of the industry, enabling even the world's most recognised brands to deliver the driving experience valued by customers worldwide.
This was clearly demonstrated at Automechanika Frankfurt, one of the leading international platforms for parts manufacturers, diagnostic and repair technology providers, and digital service companies. Held between 8 and 12 September 2026, the event covered approximately 300,000 square metres and featured developments from major industry players, including global brands such as BMW and Stellantis. The exhibition also highlighted the automotive industry's rapid digital transformation. Alongside electromobility, growing attention was given to artificial intelligence-based solutions, automation, connected car technologies and advanced diagnostic systems.
Particular focus was placed on the new HighTech4Mobility forum, dedicated to the development of software-defined vehicles. Current trends indicate that modern cars are increasingly becoming digital platforms, where software updates, online services and intelligent diagnostics may be just as important as traditional mechanical systems. This shift is also creating new challenges and opportunities for repair workshops. With the growing use of ADAS technologies, complex electronics and real-time vehicle data, repairs increasingly require specialised diagnostic and calibration capabilities.
Strong Hungarian presence and growing export success
Hungary's automotive sector was strongly represented among the international exhibitors. At the unified national stand organised by HEPA Hungarian Export Promotion Agency, seven Hungarian companies showcased their expertise across various segments of the industry:
Bálind Kft. – manufacturer of precision parts on medium and large scale
Draspó-Tempó Kft. – production and repair of parts for buses and commercial vehicles
Szaturna Kft. – developer and manufacturer of proprietary vehicle-specific wind deflectors
Autoflex-Knott Kft. – manufacturer of high-quality trailer components tailored to customer requirements
Karbantartó.hu Kft. – industrial maintenance, troubleshooting and machinery relocation services
AE Plast Kft. – professional plastic processing and assembly technology services
Voltie – manufacturer of premium and stainless steel AC chargers
During the five-day exhibition, Hungarian participants held nearly 70 business meetings with international partners. These discussions helped generate new business opportunities, explore potential partnerships and strengthen existing relationships. In addition to the HEPA national stand, several Hungarian companies also participated as independent exhibitors, further reinforcing Hungary's strategic role within the international automotive ecosystem. The event also featured a presentation by Dr. András Háry, who introduced the opportunities offered by the ZalaZONE automotive proving ground on the Innovation Pavilion stage.