German automotive trade fairs report high participation and innovation

Major automotive and transport trade fairs in Germany reported significant engagement and technological focus in 2026.

IAA TRANSPORTATION in Hanover hosted 1,589 exhibitors from 46 countries, marking a record for international participation. The event saw over 140,000 total visitors, with international attendees making up 40 percent of trade visitors. The exhibition featured more than 150 world premieres, focusing on climate-neutral and digital road freight transport. Hildegard Müller, President of the German Association of the Automotive Industry, noted the industry's commitment to innovation in heavy-duty transport while emphasizing the need for supporting infrastructure and competitive energy prices.

In Frankfurt, Automechanika drew over 112,000 trade visitors from 173 countries. The fair featured 4,400 exhibitors from 80 countries, with a primary focus on artificial intelligence, software-defined vehicles, connected cars, and alternative drive systems. Messe Frankfurt GmbH reported a positive trend in growth, including an 18.5 percent increase in German trade visitors. The event highlighted technical progress within the automotive aftermarket value chain through various innovation awards and practical industry solutions.