Automechanika Kuala Lumpur Responds to Growing Industry Demand, Shifts to Annual Automotive Event Starting in 2024

In response to the rapid pace of economic growth, the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), and the ongoing industrial transformation, Messe Frankfurt is demonstrating its commitment to the Malaysian market by announcing the annual occurrence of Automechanika Kuala Lumpur. For more than two decades, this event, previously held every two years, has served as a vital conduit for trade between Malaysia and the global community. Over time, it has evolved from a primarily business-focused platform into one that offers a diverse range of activities and showcases for participants. The upcoming exhibition is scheduled to be held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from August 1 to 3, 2024.

Ms Fiona Chiew, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, said: “The decision for Automechanika Kuala Lumpur to become an annual event was based on feedback from government bodies, industry associations, exhibitors and visitors. Malaysia’s New Industrial Master Plan 2030 was a reoccurring theme in our extensive discussions, where the EV sector is set to play a critical role over the medium to long term. Therefore, with all corners of our network converging at the show, I believe we can navigate these changes together.”

The strategic direction reflects the growing global focus on sustainability, technological innovation, and solutions for mobility and logistics across the automotive industry.

In fact, over the last few months, many renowned brands have made a be-line in the domestic market to capture first mover advantages. One such example is Proton’s recent Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Smart Automobile, which aims to explore the possibility of locally assembling Smart vehicles. The Malaysian conglomerate expressed that the collaboration is an important step in their EV production and the broader goal of turning the nation into a regional hub

In addition, Tesla made a strong statement by announcing the introduction of several models in the Malaysian market. Meanwhile, BYD has taken an early lead in generating sales off the back of a strategic partnership with the local distributor Sime Darby Motors.

Ms Chiew added: “Automechanika Kuala Lumpur will continue to offer opportunities for marketing, training, information sharing and business exchange; however, it will do so at a much faster and more frequent rate. It mirrors the speed at which the automotive industry is evolving. Participants can expect to see the latest innovations making their way to the local market, while Malaysian companies can benefit from the show’s network across ASEAN. This will ultimately contribute to the country’s growing influence in the regional automotive supply chain.”

From this perspective, specialised zones at the upcoming show will highlight how players can leverage the existing automotive industry to create a robust EV ecosystem. Themes will centre around the transformation of auto parts & components, manufacturing, accessories and customising, and repair and maintenance. These include:

• Mobility & Logistics Solutions Zone (new)
  The zone will dive into the latest provisions for urban development, city planning and smart mobility. Solutions are being heavily driven by electrification and digitalisation in the pursuit of an efficient supply chain, higher customer satisfaction and sustainable future.
• Commercial Vehicle & Fleet ZoneThe area will cater to traditional commercial vehicles like buses and trucks, as well as introduce other types of fleets like motorcycles, cars and light vehicles. The additional coverage comes as a response to the growing demand for e-commerce, ridesharing and food delivery services, in addition to business transformation of B2B and B2C operations.
• Auto Repair, Maintenance & Care / Accessories & Customising Zone
  A key spot for aftermarket players featuring diagnostics technology, specialised equipment and tools for mechanical and electrical repair and maintenance, car washing, detailing and customisation as well as oil and lubricants.

Each zone will be paired with a related fringe event, which aims to create an industry-wide dialogue in Malaysia and ASEAN. Mr Chia See Yong, General Manager of Launch Future (M) SDN BHD, spoke highly of this format at the previous edition: “Electric vehicles are undoubtedly one of the biggest trends creating new demands for automotive services and maintenance equipment. With this in mind, training mechanics on repairing and maintaining electric cars is fundamental, and I believe Automechanika Kuala Lumpur can support this development. The combination of the EV Zone and Collision Repair Training Workshop helped introduce the technologies underpinning market transformation.”

Elsewhere, autoFEST@KL is set to return with an even stronger line-up of events. The format has continued to attract a wider scope of visitors to the show, allowing exhibitors to expand the depth of conversations with end-users. In addition to a series of activities like the Auto NITZ Music Party and DIY Workshops, Automechanika Kuala Lumpur will extend the EMMA Malaysia showcase by exhibiting a whole new range of motorsports and classic cars at the upcoming show.

For more information about Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2024, please visit www.automechanika-kl.com, or email the organisers at autoasia@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com.

The brand’s flagship show, Automechanika Frankfurt, will return to the stage from 10 to 14 September 2024. Meanwhile, other Automechanika events organised by Messe Frankfurt’s Greater China offices include:

• Automechanika Shanghai: 29 November to 2 December 2023

www.automechanika-shanghai.com

• Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City: 20 to 22 June 2024

www.automechanika-hcmc.com