MOTORTEC Chile 2026 kicks off its latest edition, focused on the modernization of auto repair shops
Undersecretary Martín Mackenna highlighted the strategic importance of the event at Espacio Riesco, emphasizing that technological advancements in the technical sector are essential to ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality in the country’s road infrastructure transition.
With the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony and the presence of prominent industry leaders, this Thursday marked the official kickoff of a new edition of MOTORTEC Chile 2026 at Espacio Riesco, cementing its status as the epicenter of the automotive aftermarket in the country.
The event, which will run through Saturday, June 20, brings together the entire value chain of an industry undergoing a technological transformation, where electromobility, sustainability, and the digitization of auto repair shops are setting the tone for development in the coming years.
The trade show, organized jointly by FISA—part of the GL events Chile group—and IFEMA MADRID, serves as a showcase for innovation and a driver of workforce specialization in the land transportation sector. Over the course of three days, thousands of trade visitors will have the opportunity to experience firsthand the latest in equipment, diagnostic tools, lubricants, and replacement parts, in a space designed to foster business opportunities and partnerships.
In this regard, FISA’s general manager, Carola Fuentes, highlighted the event’s impact, noting that “over these three days, we will bring together exhibiting companies from 15 countries, more than 1,000 represented brands, and an exhibition spread across 12,000 square meters. “Here, we’ll feature brands, suppliers, distributors, repair shops, technical services, solutions, equipment, spare parts, accessories, and new technologies for an industry that is changing, modernizing, and becoming increasingly relevant.”
Along the same lines, Ana Sánchez-Terán, Director of International Expansion at IFEMA MADRID, praised the strategic partnership and the scope of the exhibition.
“Thanks to our joint efforts, we have succeeded in establishing Motortec Chile as a leading platform for the automotive aftermarket in Chile and throughout Latin America. We are dealing with a key industry. The automotive sector—and the aftermarket in particular—plays a strategic role in the economy. It creates jobs, drives innovation, and ensures the mobility of people and goods,” she emphasized.
Workshop Modernization
The inaugural event was attended by several industry stakeholders, including Sergio Pérez, president of the National Confederation of Freight Transport of Chile (CNTC); Alberto Escobar, executive secretary of the National Traffic Safety Commission; and Martín Mackenna, undersecretary of Transportation, who emphasized the importance of this event for the national productive ecosystem.
“The more than 150 companies gathered here represent the technical engine driving the transition in the road transport sector. The modernization of auto repair shops, high-tech automotive diagnostics, and the constant updating of components are essential to ensure that new technologies entering the country operate under the highest quality and safety standards,” the official noted.
Mackenna also emphasized the country’s current context regarding the use of clean energy and the importance of such platforms.
“This trade show is taking place at a pivotal moment, as Chile is now a leader in the adoption of electromobility. We have brought about a revolution in our public transportation system. Events like these demonstrate that when we align technological innovation with public policy, professionals in the sector benefit, the economy benefits, and above all, the people who demand cleaner, more efficient, more comfortable, and safer transportation every day benefit,” he concluded.
Vintage Cars, Hidden Gems, and a Commitment to Human Capital
Motortec Chile 2026 features a robust schedule of activities aimed at strengthening the professional role of mechanics. Among the highlights is the Professional Forum, a public-private debate platform featuring presentations on the advancement of electromobility and profitability management in auto repair shops. At the same time, the trade show is strongly committed to the technical talent of the future through the Technical Olympics, a competition organized in partnership with DUOC UC where high school and technical school students will put their skills to the test to become the industry’s next generation of talent.
“There are 16 competitors here from eight high schools and 21 competitors from four of the country’s leading technical higher education institutions. The goal is not only to enhance technical skills but also to create opportunities for connection, collaboration, and a sense of community centered around a shared passion,” added Mariángela Gracia, director of the Melipilla campus of Duoc UC.
The appeal for the general public and car enthusiasts lies in the combination of nostalgia and creativity on wheels. In addition to a carefully curated exhibition of vintage cars, the hallways of Espacio Riesco host the finalists of this year’s major new feature: the “Show Off Your Little Gem” contest. This event showcases spectacular automotive restoration and modification projects, with the final awards ceremony set to cap off the closing day this Saturday.