Automechanika 2025

Driving the future of automotive professionals

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) exhibited at Automechanika 2025 – the UK’s premier event for the automotive aftermarket – where we showcased how we’re driving the future of automotive professionals with professional recognition and development, by supporting the sector with skills and standards, and nurturing the next generation of talent. 

We showed our presence at 3 stands across the exhibition.

Stand A50

Attendees were able to discover the IMI's manifesto and our commitment to the automotive sector: attract and recruit, retain and progress, skills for the future. And discussed IMI membership, qualifications, IMI TechSafe, Insights by IMI and our policy work.

We also hosted bite-sized, training sessions with our CPD partner, Delphi Technologies.

These 20 minute sessions provided an introduction to hydrogen technology with real hydrogen components on display and an opportunity to ask questions. The session covered: 

• An introduction to hydrogen technology in the automotive sector – where it’s heading, industry timelines, and current adoption
• A look at components and safety considerations – from fuel cell vs hydrogen combustion to after-treatment systems
• Insight into hydrogen qualifications – including the IMI Level 1 pilot programme delivered with Delphi in January 2024, and what’s coming next
   

There's More to Motor stand (inside Motorvate)

There’s More to Motor — and we showcased it at Automechanika!

At the IMI’s "There’s More to Motor" stand, we showcased our campaign to inspire the next generation to explore the wide-ranging and rewarding careers available across the automotive industry.

Attendees had the chance to meet our Real Voices – individuals working in a variety of roles across the sector – who shared their personal journeys, insights, and what they love most about their careers. From electric vehicles and diagnostics to design, data, and cutting-edge technology, we highlighted just how diverse and exciting this industry really is.

The campaign is all about challenging outdated perceptions and showing that a career in automotive is not only innovative and future-focused, but also full of purpose and opportunity.

IMI Skills Competition Showcase (inside Motorvate)

We gave automotive students the chance to step into the spotlight at the IMI Skills Competition Showcase, where they were able to try out IMI Skills Competition-style tasks in a fun, hands-on environment, guided by apprentices who know exactly what it takes to compete at the highest level.

This showcase was designed for any student interested in light vehicle technology, heavy vehicle technology, automotive refinishing, or body repair, and had the opportunity to test their skills in each stream, learn more about the competition journey, and get inspired by those who’ve been there and done it. Daily prizes were awarded to the top performers in each category.

We were also proud to be joined by our headline sponsors, Milwaukee Tools, who were on hand to support the next generation of automotive talent.