In 2026, Automechanika Frankfurt will once again open its first day with the exclusive CEO Breakfast. The event offers international executives a platform for personal exchange, strategic insights and networking.
Our keynote speaker for the CEO Breakfast 2026 is Dr Bertrand Piccard – visionary explorer, innovator and sustainability pioneer. He gained worldwide recognition through the first non-stop balloon flight around the world and later through the groundbreaking Solar Impulse mission — the first solar-powered aircraft to circumnavigate the globe. Experience the pioneer and visionary Dr Bertrand Piccard in an exclusive fireside chat, followed by an engaging CEO Talk with representatives of event partners Aumovio, Castrol, Continental, Mann+Hummel, Schaeffler and ZF.
We look forward to welcoming you and your guests on 8 September 2026from 7:00 a.m. in this distinguished setting.
Admission and breakfast starting from 7:00 a.m. in the Forum, Level 1, Panorama Hall.
The programme begins at 7:30 a.m.
“The automotive aftermarket is transforming as mobility expectations evolve. Our value is defined by Maximizing Uptime, delivering reliability, performance, and seamless mobility. Ultimately, success will be defined by keeping customers at the center, combining a broad technology portfolio with a connected value chain, and strong partnerships across the aftermarket ecosystem.”
“The transformation of mobility is fundamentally changing the IAM sector. Increasing sustainability requirements and new vehicle platforms call for innovative solutions—and that’s exactly where we come in. MANN+HUMMEL combines innovation and materials expertise with a data-driven supply chain and a needs-based product portfolio to offer customers worldwide more sustainable and future-proof solutions.”
“At Castrol, we believe the future of mobility will be shaped by those who embrace innovation, collaboration, and sustainable progress. Automechanika provides a unique platform to exchange ideas, challenge conventional thinking, and work together to accelerate the transformation of the automotive industry for generations to come.”
“Repairability is a key element of future ecosystems. As digital services, new technologies and changing market requirements reshape the industry, we reduce complexity for our customers through one brand, one integrated portfolio and one service experience.”
“At the CEO Breakfast, AUMOVIO will focus on the profound changes shaping the market. This dynamic process can only be successfully managed through close collaboration between industry, workshops, and business partners. With a practical approach, a global mindset, and a strong focus on sustainability and digitalization, our goal is collaboration. Working together will give us the opportunity to develop together and future-proof the aftermarket.”
“We listen to our customers and act on their feedback. Our goal is to make it easy for independent aftermarket workshops to choose high-quality products while benefiting from straightforward installation and repairs. At the CEO Talk, I will discuss how future industry resilience requires us to look beyond organizational borders and take responsibility for the wider aftermarket ecosystem.”
Dr Bertrand Piccard: Visionary Explorer, Innovator and Sustainability Pioneer
Dr. Bertrand Piccard is one of the world’s leading pioneers in sustainable innovation and clean technologies. He gained worldwide recognition through the Solar Impulse project, completing the first round-the-world flight in a solar-powered aircraft. Earlier, he also achieved the first non-stop balloon flight around the globe.
Today, he is leading Climate Impulse, an ambitious project aiming to complete the first non-stop, zero-emission world flight powered by liquid hydrogen — sending a strong message about the future potential of sustainable technologies.
As a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador, psychiatrist and entrepreneur, Dr. Piccard inspires audiences with powerful insights on innovation, resilience and the economic opportunities of the ecological transition.
At the CEO Breakfast during Automechanika Frankfurt, Dr. Piccard will share his vision of how pioneering spirit, technological progress and sustainable solutions can shape the future of global industries — including the automotive aftermarket.
