The automotive restoration scene and the vintage trend steal the spotlight on the second day of Motortec Chile
La feria más importante del aftermarket en Chile no solo trajo lo último en tecnología y debates sobre el futuro del transporte en su segundo día, sino que encendió la pasión tuerca con “Exhibe tu joyita”, el concurso que premia los mejores proyectos de restauraciones y conservación mecánica del país.
The automotive sector’s buzz completely took over the second day of Motortec Chile. The country’s leading aftermarket event brings together more than 100 exhibitors at Espacio Riesco, showcasing everything from the latest innovations in basic automotive products—such as lighting systems, floor mats, and wiper blades—to cutting-edge solutions in diagnostic scanners, liquefied petroleum gas conversion systems, and state-of-the-art vehicle computers. All of this, including oils, fluids, pistons, cylinders, alternators, and “pure metal,” as car enthusiasts say.
Part of the attraction on the second day was the area dedicated to the “Show Off Your Little Gem” contest. The initiative, which features a spectacular selection of car preservation, restoration, and customization projects, caught the attention of attendees, who can vote for their favorite model on this website.
The competition has sparked a healthy rivalry among local tuners and restorers, who were able to present their vehicles on the main stage and share the stories of how they transformed them—some of which were, quite literally, in a state of total neglect—into true, impeccable gems.
The Future of Freight Transportation
The academic and discussion agenda also played a leading role through a lively roundtable discussion that addressed both the present and future of the transportation industry, as well as presentations that were 100% technical.
For example, during the talk “The Transportation Industry: 2030 Agenda,” Jorge Guerra, national head of Weighing at the Ministry of Public Works’ (MOP) Road Administration, announced the imminent launch of a new platform for authorizing the transport of oversized cargo. This platform will automatically suggest the route that a heavy truck should follow to avoid traveling on roads that are unable to withstand the load.
In the afternoon, the focus shifted to purely technical topics, where experts delved into the new maintenance standards and mechanical requirements for automatic transmissions imposed by modern vehicles.
The action never let up on the fair’s main stage. Various exhibitors took the main stage to interact directly with the audience through quick contests and industry-related trivia, giving away gifts to attendees.
In another area, the competitive excitement came from the Technical Olympics, held in partnership with Duoc UC. There, students from technical schools and vocational institutes put their mechanical skills to the test under pressure. The young mechanics demonstrated their talent by tackling complex practical challenges involving transmissions, braking systems, and the demanding protocols of electromobility, foreshadowing the high caliber of the country’s next generation of technicians.
The event is now gearing up for its closing day this Saturday. The fair’s doors will close following the highly anticipated final and awards ceremony for the Technical Olympics, as well as the presentation of the Motortec Awards—an honor created to recognize the career achievements, courage, and dedication of the individuals and companies that are strongly driving the development of the automotive industry in Chile.