The fourteenth edition of InnoTrans, the world's largest trade fair for transport technology, will open its doors again in Berlin on 24 September 2024.
This edition can be called historic in many ways, not only because of the record number of exhibitors and the immense exhibition grounds, but especially because of the focus on digitalisation and sustainability. With more than 2.940 exhibitors from 59 countries, an exhibition area of 200.000 square metres and no fewer than 226 world premieres, InnoTrans 2024 guarantees a true showcase of the future of mobility. Dirk Hoffmann, COO of Messe Berlin, emphasises the unique character of this edition: “This is the largest trade fair ever held in Berlin. With a focus on electrification, digitalisation and sustainability, InnoTrans sets exactly the right accents in a world that is changing rapidly.”
InnoTrans 2024 will provide a platform for the most innovative and sustainable solutions in transport. For example, 133 vehicles will be exhibited on a 3.500-metre track in the outdoor area, including Siemens Mobility’s Velaro high-speed train, specially designed for the Egyptian climate, and Alstom’s Coradia Max™, a regional train with a unique single- and double-decker design. Also on display to the public for the first time will be Stadler’s RS ZERO, an emission-free train that runs on both fuel cells and batteries.
In addition, 11 buses with alternative drive systems are being demonstrated in the Bus Display. One of the highlights is the B12 electric bus from the Chinese company BYD, which has an impressive range of 600 kilometers. The self-driving bus from Karsan is also attracting a lot of attention. Also from Belgium and the Netherlands are companies strongly represented in Berlin and more than worth a visit,
political involvement
The importance of InnoTrans for the international transport sector is also underlined by the presence of prominent politicians and representatives from the business community. On the opening day, German Transport Minister Dr. Volker Wissing will perform the official opening together with Dirk Hoffmann. During a panel discussion entitled “From Hype to Reality – AI in the Mobility Sector”, more than 1.000 guests from politics, business and the media will debate the role of artificial intelligence in the future of mobility. Participants include Dr. Richard Lutz, CEO of Deutsche Bahn, and Mohamed Rabie Khlie, Director General of the Moroccan National Railways.
The InnoTrans Convention forms the heart of the fair with daily dialogues organised by prominent organisations such as the German Railway Industry Association (VDB) and the German Transport Forum (DVF).
On September 25, 2024, Robert Habeck, the German Minister of Economic Affairs, and Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner will also visit the fair. Their presence underlines the political dimension of the fair, with discussions focusing on digitalization and the need for sustainable solutions for the growing transport sector.
the future of mobility
InnoTrans 2024 will not only provide a platform for innovations, but also for in-depth discussions on the future of mobility. The InnoTrans Convention will be the heart of the trade fair, with daily dialogues organised by prominent organisations such as the German Association of the Railway Industry (VDB) and the German Transport Forum (DVF). Topics such as the integration of artificial intelligence, climate-neutral transport solutions and the future of public transport will be the focus.
New this year is the AI Mobility Lab, where 42 exhibitors will showcase their latest AI-driven solutions and cybersecurity systems. Exhibitors include big names such as Google Cloud and Cisco, as well as innovative startups such as Next Generation Robotics, which will showcase a robot platform for inspecting train undercarriages.
InnoTrans also pays a lot of attention to the next generation of professionals in the transport sector. At the InnoTrans Campus, young talents can come into contact with potential employers through events such as the Eurailpress Career Boost and the Elevator Pitch on the Talent Stage. In addition, 16 Career Award winners will be honoured this year, who have made special achievements within the sector.
The Railway Influencer Festival, which is being held for the first time this year, offers a unique opportunity for exhibitors to connect with influencers, bloggers and YouTubers focusing on transport and mobility. The event will also award prizes in three categories, including Best InnoTrans Video and Best Mobility Channel on YouTube.
