Auto & Automotive Events in Germany

International Special Bikes Show

International Special Bikes Show (SPEZI): Exploring the Future of Human-Powered Mobility

In a world where innovation meets sustainability, the International Special Bikes Show (SPEZI) stands as a bold and imaginative response to our ever-changing transportation needs. Far from being just another bicycle exhibition, SPEZI has become a global hub for alternative cycling solutions, showcasing bikes that go beyond the classic diamond-frame design. For mobility enthusiasts, green commuters, and tech innovators, this is the go-to event to experience the future of human-powered mobility.

Held annually, SPEZI gathers passionate designers, manufacturers, and bike lovers from across the world under one roof. The event demonstrates how creative design, thoughtful engineering, and a shift in mindset can redefine how we move through our cities and natural environments.

Pushing the Boundaries of Traditional Cycling

Unlike mainstream cycling expos focused on racing bikes or mass-market city bicycles, the Special Bikes Show dives deep into the world of non-standard bike configurations. Attendees can expect to see an astonishing range of bikes tailored to specific needs—practical, fun, and often futuristic.
Types of Bikes on Display at SPEZI:

Recumbent bicycles: Comfortable, reclined designs perfect for long-distance travel

Tandems: Two-person bikes for shared cycling adventures

Folding bikes: Space-saving models ideal for urban dwellers and commuters

Cargo bikes: Designed to carry heavy loads or children, combining utility with eco-consciousness

Trikes and quadricycles: Stable alternatives for people of all ages and abilities

These innovative designs cater to a diverse audience—from commuters and families to adventurers and accessibility-focused users.

A Platform for Mobility, Innovation, and Environmental Awareness

SPEZI is more than a trade show; it is a statement about the importance of sustainable, human-powered mobility. In response to rising concerns about fuel consumption, climate change, and urban congestion, the event promotes alternatives that are cleaner, more efficient, and often more fun.

This focus on green transportation solutions has helped SPEZI grow into a landmark event for both manufacturers and consumers. The growing awareness of environmental issues has played a significant role in driving interest in bikes that don't just move people—but do so without polluting the planet.

A Multisensory and Educational Experience

One of SPEZI’s biggest draws is its hands-on and interactive atmosphere. It’s not just about looking at bikes on display; visitors are encouraged to test ride models, interact with developers, and participate in workshops that explore the mechanics, ergonomics, and philosophy behind human-powered vehicles.
Popular Features at the International Special Bikes Show:

Live demonstrations of innovative cycling technology

Test tracks where visitors can try out bikes themselves

Technical workshops on bike building, repairs, and modifications

Seminars and talks featuring thought leaders in the green transport sector

Children’s zones and cycling games to inspire the next generation of riders

These immersive activities make the show an engaging and educational event for professionals, hobbyists, and families alike.

Cross-Industry Appeal: More Than Just Bikes

Although cycling is the core theme of SPEZI, the event also draws interest from adjacent industries such as automotive innovation, sports, toy design, health tech, and environmental engineering. The focus on lightweight, energy-efficient transport intersects naturally with trends in urban planning, active lifestyle design, and eco-conscious product development.

In recent years, we’ve seen an increasing presence of:

Start-ups and engineers working on modular bike systems

Fitness companies integrating cycling into holistic health regimes

Tech firms developing smart accessories, GPS tools, and app-controlled e-bike systems

Tourism businesses creating eco-friendly travel packages based on specialty bikes

This diversity is part of what makes SPEZI such a compelling experience. It’s not only about biking—it’s about the broader potential of alternative mobility in a modern world.

Supporting a Greener Future Through Innovation

As cities around the world rethink their infrastructure in favor of bike lanes, pedestrian zones, and shared mobility hubs, SPEZI continues to lead the conversation. The show highlights how cycling, in its many forms, can play a critical role in reducing traffic congestion, lowering emissions, and promoting healthier lifestyles.

The event’s impact is felt far beyond the show floor:

Municipal planners use it to study urban bike integration strategies

Schools and universities attend to promote sustainable transportation education

NGOs use the platform to campaign for inclusive and accessible mobility

In this way, SPEZI supports the evolution of our cities and communities toward sustainable design and environmental responsibility.

Why SPEZI Matters: Beyond the Standard Frame

The International Special Bikes Show is not just a showcase of quirky or unconventional bicycles—it is a testament to the power of human creativity and environmental responsibility. It encourages us to imagine a world where transport isn’t just fast or flashy but is also aligned with the planet’s long-term health.

Whether you're a curious newcomer, a dedicated engineer, or someone looking for the perfect bike to fit your lifestyle, SPEZI provides a welcoming, inventive, and inspiring space. As we look to the future of mobility, events like this offer not only practical solutions but also a compelling vision for a cleaner, more connected world.

Techno Classica Essen

Techno-Classica Essen stands as an extraordinary celebration of the automobile's past, present, and future, offering a unique meeting place for enthusiasts, professionals, and collectors from around the world. Over the years, this event has become more than just an automobile show; it is a pivotal trading center, a platform for communication, and a forum for exchanging ideas within the international automotive community. With its rich history of bringing together industry leaders, vintage car aficionados, and automotive innovators, Techno-Classica Essen has played a crucial role in shaping the way we view and appreciate automobiles as a cultural asset.

At its core, the show embodies a perfect balance of tradition and innovation, seamlessly blending a reverence for the timeless beauty of classic vehicles with a forward-thinking approach to future developments in automotive design and technology. It provides a space where the passion for uniquely shaped mobility and a fascination for exceptional design, technical ingenuity, and diverse powertrain concepts, spanning from historical models to cutting-edge advancements, can be celebrated by all.

Visitors to Techno-Classica Essen are treated to an expansive exhibition experience. Numerous halls and outdoor areas host thousands of cars—ranging from vintage classics to modern marvels—demonstrating the rich evolution of the automobile. Beyond the cars themselves, the show offers an extensive array of spare parts, automobilia, literature, model cars, and artworks that help tell the story of automotive history. These diverse offerings are a testament to the event’s commitment to not only showcasing vehicles but also preserving and sharing the culture and history surrounding them.

One of the standout features of Techno-Classica Essen is its dynamic program of events, which caters to both professionals and enthusiasts of historic vehicles. With expert lectures, engaging presentations, and lively discussion panels led by automotive industry experts, the fair offers a wealth of knowledge. These sessions provide valuable insights into topics such as vintage car restoration, the latest trends in automotive preservation, and the ever-evolving technologies that continue to shape the automotive industry. The opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and stay informed about the latest developments makes this event an unmissable occasion for anyone with a passion for automobiles.

In addition to the general exhibitions and discussions, Techno-Classica Essen is also known for its spectacular special exhibitions, which often focus on specific themes or brands and present a curated collection of rare, historically significant vehicles. These exhibitions are a highlight for collectors, automotive historians, and enthusiasts alike, as they provide a unique opportunity to view extraordinary cars that may not be found anywhere else in the world. The significance of these special exhibitions extends beyond just the vehicles themselves, as they often help to illuminate key moments in automotive history and the people who shaped the industry.

Techno-Classica Essen's ability to bring together such a diverse and passionate community of automotive professionals and enthusiasts has cemented its position as one of the most important events in the automotive world. It’s not only a place to admire beautiful cars but also a place to share knowledge, celebrate the heritage of the automobile, and look forward to the future of the industry. Thanks to the contributions of all the participants—exhibitors, media, visitors, and enthusiasts alike—the event continues to inspire and drive the collective passion for automobiles, preserving the legacy of the past while fostering the innovations that will shape the future.

Innovation Forum for Automation

Since its inception in 2004, the annual Innovation Forum for Automation has been a leading event organized by the Automation Network Dresden (AND), located in Germany. The forum brings together top-tier professionals and companies focused on advancing factory automation technologies, with a particular emphasis on the semiconductor industry. Member companies of AND, including Fabmatics, Kontron AIS, SYSTEMA, and XENON, collaborate to deliver the latest insights into significant automation projects and cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future of manufacturing across multiple industries.

The two-day event serves as an essential platform for over 300 international executives, managers, engineers, and researchers to engage in in-depth discussions about the latest advancements in automation. Attendees are given the opportunity to explore new technologies, solutions, and best practices that are transforming factory automation, addressing both current challenges and future opportunities. Whether it’s optimizing production lines, integrating new automation technologies, or improving efficiency and sustainability in manufacturing processes, the Innovation Forum presents a comprehensive overview of the industry's most pressing topics.

In addition to the wealth of professional knowledge shared through presentations, workshops, and case studies, the forum fosters a unique and intimate environment that encourages networking and collaboration. The event provides a friendly and open-minded space for participants to connect with fellow automation enthusiasts, exchange ideas, and explore potential partnerships. This aspect of the forum is invaluable, as it enables professionals from diverse backgrounds to come together and discuss how automation technologies can drive growth and innovation in various sectors, with a particular focus on the ever-evolving semiconductor market.

A standout feature of the Innovation Forum for Automation is the annual Innovation Award for Automation, which honors a remarkable project or breakthrough that exemplifies excellence in automation. The award is presented to a project that showcases significant advancements or exceptional contributions to the field, recognizing the innovators and companies that are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in factory automation. The winners of this prestigious award are celebrated during the forum’s popular evening event, providing a moment of recognition and inspiration for the entire industry.

The Innovation Forum for Automation is not just a conference; it is a celebration of the transformative power of automation technology and a platform where the brightest minds in the field gather to shape the future. Whether you're looking to gain professional insights, explore new technologies, or build meaningful connections, the event offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the cutting-edge developments that are driving the automation revolution.

INNOTRANS

InnoTrans, the premier international trade fair for transport technology, takes place biennially in Berlin and stands as a monumental event in the industry. This expansive exhibition spans all 42 halls at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds, showcasing the latest advancements across five key segments: Railway Technology, Railway Infrastructure, Public Transport, Interiors, and Tunnel Construction. 

The fair is distinguished by its comprehensive layout, including an extensive outdoor and track display area that features everything from tank wagons to high-speed trains across 3,500 meters of track. This unique setup allows visitors to experience the full spectrum of transport technologies in action.

In addition to the main exhibition, InnoTrans offers a dynamic supporting program through the InnoTrans Convention, which provides high-level insights into the industry and is streamed live for global access. Vehicle manufacturers are given the opportunity to display buses in a dedicated static Bus Display area and on an adjacent Demonstration Course, offering practical insights into their latest innovations.

Organized by Messe Berlin, InnoTrans 2022 saw participation from 2,771 exhibitors across 56 countries and attracted 137,403 visitors from 137 nations. This remarkable turnout underscores InnoTrans' status as the leading global trade fair for transport technology, drawing industry professionals from around the world to explore the forefront of transport innovation.

IAA TRANSPORTATION

The highly anticipated trade show for mobility enthusiasts and logistics professionals is approaching at the Hannover Fairground in Germany. The Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung (IAA), renowned as the premier motor show, is organized by IAA and promises to be a focal point for the latest in transportation innovation.

This year's event will feature approximately 1,400 exhibitors showcasing a diverse range of products and technologies. Attendees can expect to see an extensive array of vehicles including truck freight, ships, trains, planes, buses, and special cars. The exhibition will also highlight advancements in delivery robots, electric cargo bikes, lorries, containers, and transport logistics equipment. A notable aspect of this year's show is the introduction of major innovations in aerodynamics, safety, and drive systems.

For businesses, participating in this exhibition presents a valuable opportunity to elevate their profile among leading brands and industry players. The IAA brings together a wide array of forecasters, decision-makers, and experts, offering a unique forum to gain insights into the latest technical developments, sustainability initiatives, and economic trends shaping the global transport industry. Engaging with this conference will provide significant knowledge about the ongoing transformation in transportation and logistics, making it an essential event for those involved in the sector.

OLDTIMER- UND TEILEMARKT - SUHL

The "Oldtimer & Teilemarkt" in Suhl is a distinguished annual event dedicated to the world of vintage vehicles and their parts. Specializing in spare parts and accessories for pre-war cars, tractors, and commercial vehicles, this unique fair is a must-attend for enthusiasts and collectors. Organized by Projektzentrum Szymkowiak, the event typically takes place in September and is part of a series of similar fairs hosted at various locations across Germany, including Magdeburg, Riesa, Cottbus, Leipzig, and Dresden throughout the year.

The Suhl fair focuses on classic car brands, East German vehicles, historical military vehicles, and original spare parts. It attracts a diverse range of exhibitors from the automotive, trade, and agricultural sectors, providing a rich selection of parts, tools, and accessories. Visitors have the chance to explore a vast array of rare items, whether they are looking for specific components or simply browsing through nostalgic treasures.

A notable highlight of the event is the transformation of the Automobiloase Simson in Suhl into a giant spare parts emporium and an open-air museum dedicated to vehicle history for the duration of the fair. This transformation showcases a grand assortment of vehicles, including tractors, commercial vehicles, American cars, and military models, emphasizing the fair's extensive appeal.

The "Oldtimer & Teilemarkt" not only serves as a marketplace but also as a grand meeting point for enthusiasts of both old and youngtimers. Collectors, restorers, and vintage vehicle lovers flock to the event to engage with like-minded individuals and discover hard-to-find parts. The fair’s relaxed approach allows all vendors to participate without the need for special registration, making it an accessible and inclusive event for everyone interested in automotive history.

Located in Suhl, a city known for its long-standing tradition in weaponry and vehicle production, the fair benefits from its historical backdrop. The venue, with ample parking and easy access, enhances the experience for visitors, making the "Oldtimer & Teilemarkt" a prominent event in the calendar for those passionate about classic and historical vehicles.

CARAVAN SALON DÜSSELDORF

In the heart of Düsseldorf, where tradition meets innovation, lies an event that captivates the spirit of mobile leisure—the renowned Caravan Salon Düsseldorf. Established in 1962 and managed by Messe Düsseldorf GmbH, this prestigious trade fair has earned its reputation as the world's leading showcase for motorhomes and caravans. Each year, typically in late August or early September, the Düsseldorf Exhibition Center transforms into a vibrant hub for enthusiasts of travel on wheels.

At its core, the Caravan Salon is a celebration of freedom and adventure. Spanning 10 days, the event welcomes over 650 exhibitors from 31 countries, offering a dazzling array of vehicles, accessories, and cutting-edge technologies. From sleek motorhomes to cozy caravans, visitors explore the latest models and innovations that redefine mobile living.

But the Caravan Salon is more than just a marketplace; it's an experience that embodies the essence of exploration. Attendees immerse themselves in a world of possibilities, discovering everything from state-of-the-art camping gear to luxurious e-bikes designed for outdoor adventures. The exhibition not only showcases products but also introduces visitors to some of Europe's most scenic travel destinations and campsites, inspiring dreams of journeys yet to be taken.

A highlight of the event is the lively ""Caravan Center,"" a sprawling camping zone where enthusiasts can experience the camaraderie of fellow travelers. Here, under starlit skies, evenings come alive with musical performances and shared stories—a testament to the community spirit that defines caravaning culture.

For industry professionals, the Caravan Salon offers a dedicated day to network and forge partnerships, setting the stage for future collaborations and business opportunities. Meanwhile, everyday enthusiasts revel in the chance to interact with experts, participate in workshops, and glean insights into the latest trends shaping the mobile leisure industry.

Located at the state-of-the-art Düsseldorf Exhibition Center, the Caravan Salon benefits from world-class infrastructure and accessibility, making it a seamless experience for visitors and exhibitors alike. Beyond the trade fair, attendees can explore Düsseldorf's rich cultural tapestry, from its historic landmarks to its vibrant culinary scene—a perfect complement to a day spent indulging in the world of mobile leisure.

As the sun sets on another successful year, the legacy of the Caravan Salon Düsseldorf lingers—an unforgettable fusion of information, innovation, and entertainment that leaves a lasting impression on all who attend. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or dreaming of your first adventure, the Caravan Salon promises an escape into a world where the journey truly is the destination.

Join us at the next Caravan Salon Düsseldorf and embark on a journey of discovery, where every turn of the wheel brings new possibilities and every moment on the road becomes a cherished memory.