Quick look
- Malaysia is one of the 16 global Automechanika events which began in 1971 as an alternative to the Frankfurt Motor Show that year was cancelled.
- Admission to the event at the KL Convention Centre is free but tickets have to be purchased for certain activities.
Although most people know motorshows more for the consumer type where new models and accessories are displayed, there is also another motorshow which is more for the industry side of the business. This is more of a trade fair for companies that supply the industry and show off their latest products and technologies.
How Automechanika started
One of the globally well known trade fairs is Automechanika, organised by Frankfurt-based fair and exhibition company, Messe Frankfurt. The first Automechanika was held in 1971 and was actually organised because the Frankfurt Motor Show organiser decided to cancel that’s year’s event. The auto industry was going through a difficult period and the very high cost of participating in a motorshow was deemed more than worth the returns that could be gained.
As around 90% of the exhibitors at the Frankfurt Motor Show were from the parts sector and industries related to the auto industry, Messe Frankfurt organised a new event that would cater to this group which was quite large.
16 events globally
This saw the start of Automechanika which would go on to be replicated in other major cities around the world. Today, it is the leading event of its type, with 16 events held globally. Not only is it the international meeting place for the manufacturing industry, aftersales services and automotive trade, it also represents the entire automotive aftermarket value chain like no other trade fair brand.
Malaysia is one of the locations and the 15th edition will be held from May 14 – 16 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Since its inception, Automechanika Kuala Lumpur has evolved from a traditional spare parts exhibition into a comprehensive regional platform for the entire automotive value chain.
As the Malaysian satellite of the global Automechanika brand, the event has historically served as a gateway for international brands to enter the Southeast Asian market, consistently reflecting the country’s industrial growth from basic assembly to high-technology manufacturing.
More than 300 exhibitors
This year’s exhibition spans 12,500 square metres with more than 300 exhibitors from 14 countries and regions. In line with industry trends, there will be a shift in displays and presentations towards intelligent connectivity, new energy sources, and AI-driven systems. By bridging the gap between automakers and the aftermarket sector, the event illustrates how innovations in vehicle production directly influence the capabilities required for long-term maintenance.
This synergy is intended to help local and regional companies integrate into the full lifecycle of modern vehicles, ensuring that the supply chain remains resilient as global trends lean toward electrification and digitalization.
Activities at Automechanika
Knowledge-sharing forms a core component of the 2026 program, specifically through the Automotive Mobility Solutions Conference. Global industry leaders including Volkswagen Group Malaysia, Siemens Digital Industries Software, and PwC Malaysia will address the complexities of green mobility and the necessity of digitalized supply chains.
These discussions are expected to provide technical foundations for safety and environmental compliance while exploring the logistical challenges of sustainable distribution and the sourcing of critical battery minerals.
Technical proficiency remains a priority for the aftermarket segment, which faces a growing skills gap due to the rise of electric vehicles and advanced driver assistance systems. The Collision Repair Training Workshop will provide live demonstrations on new technical standards, focusing on sensor calibration and specialized repair protocols for new energy vehicles. Participants will have the opportunity to observe modern body and paint techniques, reflecting a broader industry move toward green maintenance practices and high-precision refinishing technologies.
In addition to the technical displays, the event will feature an upgraded Automotive Service Marketplace in Hall 6. This area focuses on the intersection of international trade and local service retail, bringing together brands specializing in auto detailing and customization. The marketplace serves as a practical demonstration of how specialized service providers can adapt to changing consumer demands, offering a space for business exchange that caters to both the commercial and enthusiast segments of the automotive industry.
autoFest@KL for the public
The event concludes with the autoFEST@KL, an initiative designed to showcase the cultural aspects of the automotive world through classic car displays and motorsport discussions. By incorporating elements such as an esports challenge and interactive studios, the organizers aim to reflect the evolving interests of industry stakeholders and the younger demographic.
This holistic approach ensures that while the focus remains on industrial and technological advancement, the community and lifestyle aspects of the Malaysian automotive scene are equally represented.
“Malaysia’s automotive industry is increasing its presence on the global stage by aligning with international trends and advancing high-technology manufacturing for new energy and AI-connected vehicles. Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2026 will highlight these advancements across various aspects of the industry, from OEMs to the aftermarket, while also offering local companies with insights into global developments and valuable networking opportunities. At the same time, it will give international participants access to the strengths of the Malaysian market,” said Fiona Chiew, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd.
Admission to Automechanika Kuala Lumpur is free but registration (and purchase of tickets) is required for certain activities during the three days.
KL International Mobility Show (KLIMS) to be held in June 2026
