The automotive industry is entering a new era where electrification, artificial intelligence, digitalisation and sustainability are reshaping every aspect of global mobility. As technology continues to blur the boundaries between automotive manufacturing, logistics, energy and digital infrastructure, collaboration has become essential for future success. Messe Frankfurt is responding by expanding its global mobility ecosystem, creating new opportunities for innovation, networking and knowledge exchange. In this exclusive Automotive Industries interview, Michael Johannes, Vice President, Mobility & Logistics at Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH, shares his perspective on the trends, technologies and partnerships driving the next generation of mobility.

Michael Johannes discusses how AI, digitalisation and sustainability are transforming mobility through connected ecosystems, resilient supply chains and international collaboration. He explains why cross-industry partnerships, circular economy initiatives and global exhibitions such as Automechanika are becoming essential for innovation, competitiveness and long-term growth across the automotive industry.

Automotive Industries Interview with Michael Johannes, Vice President, Mobility & Logistics, Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH

Automotive Industries: Hi Michael, the mobility sector is undergoing one of the biggest transformations in its history. From your perspective, what are the most significant opportunities emerging for the global automotive industry?

Johannes: In my opinion, the biggest opportunity lies in the convergence of electrification, digitalisation and sustainability. This transformation is creating entirely new business models, from software-driven services to circular economy solutions and advanced aftermarket innovations. Companies that embrace collaboration and adapt quickly will be best positioned to shape the future of global mobility.

Automotive Industries: Mobility increasingly extends beyond vehicles to include digital ecosystems, logistics, infrastructure, and energy. How is Messe Frankfurt adapting its portfolio to reflect this broader mobility landscape?

Johannes: Mobility is no longer just about vehicles – it’s about connected ecosystems. That’s why we are continuously evolving our portfolio to bring together stakeholders from the automotive, logistics, infrastructure, energy and technology sectors.

Our ambition goes beyond organising trade fairs. We are building an ecosystem that connects the automotive aftermarket throughout the year, creating opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange and collaboration through a wide range of events, initiatives and touchpoints.

Together with our strong international Automechanika network, we continuously develop new concepts and strategies that reflect the changing needs of the industry.

Automotive Industries: Logistics has become a strategic competitive advantage. Which innovations do you believe will have the greatest impact on automotive manufacturing and aftermarket operations over the next decade?

Johannes: AI, automation, and data-driven supply chains will have the greatest impact. These technologies will make logistics more resilient, efficient, and transparent, while helping manufacturers and the aftermarket respond more quickly to changing customer demands and global market challenges.

Automotive Industries: How are artificial intelligence and digitalization changing the way companies manage global supply chains and logistics networks?

Johannes: Artificial intelligence and digitalisation are transforming supply chains by making them more connected, transparent, and predictive. They enable companies to analyse data in real time, improve demand forecasting, optimise inventory and transport, and respond more quickly to disruptions.

As a result, global logistics networks become more resilient, efficient, and better equipped to meet changing market demands.

Automotive Industries: The automotive industry is becoming increasingly software-driven. How does this change the role of exhibitions like Automechanika in bringing together traditional engineering and digital innovation?

Johannes: At this time of rapid transformation, collaboration across different sectors is more important than ever. Automechanika brings together traditional engineering, digital technologies, and new mobility solutions on one platform. It creates opportunities for manufacturers, suppliers, software companies, and startups to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and drive innovation together.

Automotive Industries: International collaboration remains essential despite geopolitical uncertainty. What role does Messe Frankfurt play in connecting global markets and fostering new business partnerships?

Johannes: Messe Frankfurt provides a global platform where companies from around the world can connect, exchange ideas and build lasting business relationships.

Especially in times of geopolitical uncertainty, our events create opportunities for dialogue, innovation and international collaboration, helping businesses access new markets and develop strong global partnerships.

This is further strengthened by Automechanika’s global network, where we work closely with our colleagues and around 120 partners worldwide to share expertise and continuously develop the brand across all regions.

Automotive Industries: Sustainability has become central to both mobility and logistics. Which technologies or business models do you expect to gain the most momentum in the coming years?

Johannes: I expect circular economy solutions, electrification, AI-driven optimisation, and sustainable logistics to gain the most momentum.

Business models focused on remanufacturing, recycling, predictive maintenance, and resource efficiency will become increasingly important. At the same time, digital technologies will help companies reduce emissions while improving operational efficiency and resilience.

Automotive Industries: Small and medium-sized enterprises remain the backbone of the automotive supply chain. How can international exhibitions help them compete on a global stage?

Johannes: International trade fairs like Automechanika Frankfurt provide small and medium-sized enterprises with access to global markets, new customers, and valuable business networks.

Our events offer a platform to showcase innovations, build partnerships, and gain valuable insights into the latest industry trends. This helps companies strengthen their competitiveness and expand their international presence.

Automotive Industries: What industries outside traditional automotive are now becoming increasingly important participants in the mobility ecosystem?

Johannes: The mobility ecosystem is becoming increasingly interconnected. Industries such as software and AI, energy, logistics, telecommunications, and smart infrastructure are playing a much bigger role alongside the traditional automotive sector.

Innovation today happens at the intersection of these industries, making cross-sector collaboration more important than ever.

Automotive Industries: As you look toward the future of mobility, what developments do you believe will most surprise the industry over the next five years?

Johannes: I believe the pace of change will surprise the industry most. Artificial intelligence, software-defined vehicles, automation, and new mobility services are evolving much faster than many expected.

Companies that embrace innovation, collaboration, and flexibility will be best positioned to succeed in this rapidly changing environment.