Automechanika breaks records in Shanghai

There was a clear sense of celebration at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) as the global automotive industry returned to the city for the 18th edition of Automechanika Shanghai 2023 (29 November- 2 December).

The focus was very much on the future and on collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Organisers Messe Frankfurt and the China National Machinery Industry International Co Ltd (Sinomachint) released the following key figures as the 2023 show wrapped up:

  • There was an increase of 16% in onsite visitor numbers to 185,284 from 177 countries and regions
  • There were 5,652 Exhibitors from 41 countries and regions at a show that occupied over 300,000sqm
  • There were also over 870,000 page views on the show website feed.

Fiona Chiew, general manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, said: “The overwhelming surge of participation indicates the show’s continued significance in the automotive industry, not just for China but globally too, providing a gateway for information exchange, marketing, trade and education.” 

The fair’s highest individual countries in terms of participation, included visitors from Malaysia, Taiwan, India, South Korea, Türkiye, Thailand, Brazil, the UAE, Australia and Germany (in descending order).

On the show floor, exhibitors came from 41 countries and regions, including national pavilions from France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, Türkiye, the UAE, the UK, and the US.

Ms Li Zhang, general manager of China National Machinery Industry International Co Ltd, said:.” In the Chinese market, we expect to see another leap in NEV production and sales of over 13 million units as the country’s charging infrastructure and supportive government policies accelerate the adoption. Moreover, the rapid progress of AI, sensor technology, and connectivity is charting a course towards enhanced vehicle autonomy, safety, and efficiency.” 

All areas of the Innovation4Mobility Showcase proved popular as visitors explored product showcases and tuned into an array of presentations. Companies such as Ambarella, Nanyue, VIE, and Fulin Precision displayed hydrogen-related products, automotive chips, new energy vehicle power systems, raw materials for power batteries, and wireless charging.

Elsewhere, the Green Repair Area focused on the NEV aftermarket by covering infrastructure, skilled labour, equipment and accessories. The new Customising x Tech Area also explored automotive personalisation, showcasing a range of customised car models, infotainment, and lighting solutions.

The show also saw the debut of the International Automotive Industry Conference 2023, as it mirrored many of the themes around the exhibition.

“As a start-up company, we aim to utilise the platform and global resources provided by Automechanika Shanghai to enhance our market presence. The show comprehensively encompasses the entire automotive supply chain, drawing attention from across the country, Asia, and beyond. This lets us observe the market’s development first-hand, meet with industry peers, and gain valuable insights,” said Mr Jiangfeng Zhang, CEO, Zhejiang YiGongLi Intelligent Technology Co Ltd (Diagnostics & Repair / Body & Paint).

“As a leading spare parts distributor in Europe, we assembled 15 representatives to participate in the show, aiming to engage with our existing suppliers and explore new business opportunities. The discussions were promising, particularly regarding the advancements observed during my previous visit to China in 2019. The evident progress in production processes, marked by a shift towards heightened automation and improved product quality, is a positive indicator for potential collaborations,” noted Radostaw Rote, Team Manager, Purchasing Department, PKW (Poland).

The next edition of Automechanika Shanghai will take place 2-5 December 2024.