Australian Automotive Aftermarket Expo education program shaping up strongly

The Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo, scheduled for April 11-13 at the Melbourne Exhibition & Convention Centre, is shaping up as a substantial source of education for the automotive repair and service industry, as well as the usual showcase of the latest equipment, technology, parts, and accessories.

As usual, several members of the VASA board will be staffing the association’s booth at the 2024 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo, located at stand C05, which is not far from the trade show entrance. All are welcome to drop by for a chat.

This year’s Expo education program aims to provide attendees with insights into various aspects of the industry, ranging from local marketing to workforce challenges and the impact of electrification on workshops.

Making his way from the United States to share his sought-after expertise on global aftermarket trends, right to repair and skills shortages will be Auto Care Association president and CEO Bill Hanvey.

A spotlight on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) will take place at the ADAS Technology Zone, a collaboration between AAAA and ADAS Solutions Australia, where experts will run live demonstrations and share insights into the intricacies of ADAS calibration.

Internationally recognised diagnostic experts with large online followings including Dutch YouTuber ‘Diagnose Dan’ (Danny Versluis) and US-based podcaster Sean Tipping will lead a technical training program aimed at enhancing the diagnostic skills of Australian automotive technicians.

Danny’s program covers diverse topics, including AdBlue and diesel aftertreatment diagnostics, LIN bus diagnostics, electrified vehicle challenges, thermal management mastery and network troubleshooting while Sean’s sessions will cover circuit analysis, parasitic draws, network diagnostics and how to condemn a control module.

The Expo will also introduce the Expo Electrified Zone, organised by The Automotive Technician’s (TaT) new ‘EV & Hybrid Network’ to provide a hands-on exploration of electric and hybrid vehicles, featuring live testing of electric motors and generators.

Other business leaders to deliver talks at this year’s Expo include Wayne Bryant (GPC), Steve Drummy (Bapcor), Adam Gillick (Pedders), Adam Pay (Mycar Tyre & Auto) and Bradley Gannon (Capricorn Society).

Speakers from Expo organisers, the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), will include CEO Stuart Charity and government relations and advocacy director Lesley Yates.

On show at the Expo Electrified Zone will be some of the tools, workshop equipment and personal protective equipment required for working on electrified vehicles, as well as Ford F-150 Lightning electric pick-up truck, provided by the Auto Innovation Centre.

This year’s event is sponsored by Repco and will again serve as a meeting ground for industry networking, awards recognition, and even celebrity appearances.

For more information and to register for free tickets, visit autoaftermarketexpo.com.au.