Automechanika Shanghai 2022 harnesses Innovation4Mobility to foster supply chain engagement

The influence of future mobility, new energy solutions, a resilient consumer market and an evolving regulatory environment are sending ripples of innovation around the automotive ecosystem. These dimensions form the base of Automechanika Shanghai’s concept Innovation4Mobility as it reinforces opportunities along the supply chain, which the automotive community can capture through new areas and events. The show will host 3,500 exhibitors from 21 countries and regions from 1 to 4 December at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai).

Ms Fiona Chiew, Deputy General Manager, Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, said: “The automotive industry is a social mainstay that actively contributes to the evolving landscape of future mobility. With digitalisation, new policies and consumer behaviour manifesting a sustainable auto ecosystem, we believe Automechanika Shanghai is an integral part of the transformation. The show offers a renowned collection of global expertise and brings forward the right tools for players to innovate along this developmental path.”

In this regard, the 17th edition of Automechanika Shanghai adopts Innovation4Mobility to play into a unique way of presenting China’s transformational direction in the automotive industry to a global audience. Themes across the show under this concept will echo the country’s ‘four new modernisations’ (electrification, intelligence, connectivity and sharing) and ‘dual carbon goals’[1], which are rapidly expanding the automotive value chain. Along with these changes, the country’s electric car market is already in sight of reaching a 20 percent penetration rate of car sales by the end of this year, well ahead of the Government’s initial target in 2025[2].

Mirroring this transitioning landscape of mobility, the show draws attention to the fundamental changes in the supply chain and consumer market by leveraging Innovation4Mobility in four specialised areas: the Innovation4Mobility Mainstage (Hall 2.1), A New Era of Commercial Vehicles (North Hall), Green Repair (Hall 7.2) and Motorsport and High Performance (Hall 8.2). At the core of this concept, the Innovation4Mobility Mainstage will champion the advancing technologies and innovations in the value chain. Here, a forum area, networking lounge, start-up arena and product showcases create an ideal environment to share new ideas, interact with like-minded players and celebrate the developments propelling the new automotive era forward.

Furthermore, Parts & Components is a key sector highlighting how digitalisation and electrification enable higher efficiency and connectivity. Top auto parts suppliers will display the latest engine electronics, electrified products and technologies. Local automakers, industrial bases and overseas exhibitors seeking cross-collaborative opportunities include Bilstein, Borgwarner, Bosch, Brembo, Changan, China North Industries, CRC, Dayco, F-Diesel, FMG, Ford Motor China, Foton Motor, Gates Unitta, GSP, Hengst, Leoch Battery, Lucas, Luoshi, Mahle, Michelin, MS Motor Service, NGK, Qingshan Industry, SAIC MOTOR, Saleri, Sensata, Tec Alliance, TEIN, TMD, VIE, Wanxiang, ZF and Zynp Group.

Elsewhere, Tomorrow’s Service & Mobility prepares to cover opportunities that extend to both the alternative drive technologies (hydrogen and fuel cell) and the e-mobility chain (batteries, electric drives, electric controls and battery swapping facilities). Additionally, A New Era of Commercial Vehicles will go even further to address the role of commercial vehicles in the logistics industry with a scenario-based display of the hydrogen energy supply chain. Around this showcase, exhibitors like APALT, Baolong, CAMEL, CHANGHUI, Chuhang Technology, CRRC, Ennopro, Grandwall Tech, NavInfo, PlusAI, PFLUON, SIEKON, Sogreat, SPARKTRONIC, Weidong and ZF will pinpoint the technologies and sensors in autonomous driving, intelligent cockpits and smart transportation.

Creating synergy in the new connected era

Innovation is also sweeping across the Diagnostics & Repair / Body & Paint sector with Autel, CELETTE CHINA, Chicago Pneumatic, Dali, EAE, Festool, Gaochang Hydraulic, Greatstar Sheffield Tools, GYS CHINA, Midtronics, SATA, SmartSafe, SUNSHINE and Würth presenting their latest after-sales solutions.

Accordingly, these aftermarket players will see the repair and maintenance of alternate drives and electric vehicles jump from the niche to the norm. This is a focal point for the Green Repair area as many workshops and mechanics strengthen their product ranges and capabilities. New energy vehicle automakers, battery companies and training institutes will offer vital knowledge transfer to cultivate talent in the maintenance of batteries and electric power control units, as well as learn about insulated workshop environments.

Exhibitors in the Services & Supply Chain zone will become leading examples of companies developing new business models around connectivity, digitalisation, data sharing and tech-savvy vehicle owners. Carzone, KZMALL, Level, Mancando, and SORL and other leaders in e-commerce, chain stores and the auto parts supply chain will highlight their platforms and strategies utilising the power of the internet, big data, and artificial intelligence (AI).

Accessories and Customising sectors will also feature new energy vehicle lubricants and car tuning. Customisation brands and solution providers include ABT, AIDO, Amsoil, AUTOBACS, Botny, CHEPU, CSIC, COPTON, Delian, FUCHS, Galp, Huitian, JINCOOL, LIQUI MOLY, MP Concepts, Musicson, Petro-Canada, Shuangxing, Sinoma, STRONA, Total Energies and Zero Mileage.

The Motorsport and High Performance area will showcase leading brands and motorsport displays, as well as offer technical seminars, and experience sharing. Here, players can exchange know-how and build relationships with OEMs, 4S groups, dealers, racing teams, auto clubs, and more.

A rundown of value-added activities

From July, a series of online media interviews from A Dialogue with Automotive Entrepreneurs will return, delving into the new energy vehicle value chain and key developments from industry pioneers.  Moreover, players can tune into a webinar with global thought leaders discussing the alternative fuel sector in August.

Other value-added services like AMS Live, Match Up, skills training, and visits to new energy vehicle industrial parks and institutions continue to help participants reach wider markets and stay on top of trends. At the show, more than 50 fringe events will touch upon advancements in mobility, environmental protection and more.

Ms Li Zhang, General Manager of China National Machinery Industry International Co Ltd, said: “Figures from China reflect that the automotive industry is in a stage of transition. In the first five months of 2022, the country produced 2.071 million new energy vehicles and sold a further 2.003 million units, a 10 percent growth compared to the previous year. Therefore, Automechanika Shanghai will capture the latest challenges and opportunities associated with the evolving market. As a result, participants can utilise the show’s global industry resources by exploring the trends to help upgrade and transform their business models.”

In light of the COVID-19 outbreak, organisers of Automechanika Shanghai will continue to ensure appropriate measures are in place to safeguard the health and safety of all stakeholders at the show.