Your Guide to 2026’s Leading Auto & Trucking Industry Expos
The automotive and trucking sector remains one of the most influential engines of the U.S. economy, powering manufacturing, logistics, and advanced technology development. With commercial trucking generating more than $900 billion in annual revenue and the automotive industry accelerating toward electrification and automation, the stakes. The pace of change has never been higher. This is an industry where innovation is the currency of long-term competitiveness.
In 2025, that momentum comes to life on the trade show floor. The year brings a strong lineup of national gatherings that unite OEMs, fleet leaders, parts manufacturers and mobility innovators under one roof. These shows serve as the industry’s annual pulse check, revealing emerging technologies, future regulations, and shifting market priorities.
Exhibitors gain high-value networking, real-time product validation and visibility with the decision-makers shaping the future of mobility. These key trade shows remain one of the few places where innovation, strategy, and business outcomes intersect in real time.
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| 1. SCWA |
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1. SCWA
When: February 25 – 27, 2026
Where: Fort Worth, TX
About The Trade Show:
The SCWA Convention & Expo is one of the most influential regional events for car wash owners, operators, and suppliers across the Southwest. Returning to Fort Worth in 2026, the show offers a focused platform to explore the latest equipment, chemicals, technology, and business solutions shaping modern wash operations.
Attendees can connect with leading vendors, attend targeted education sessions, and gain practical insights into improving efficiency, enhancing customer experience, and driving profitability. With its strong industry participation and solutions-driven programming, SCWA remains a must-attend event for car wash professionals looking to stay competitive and elevate their operations in the year ahead.
When: March 10 – 13, 2026
Where: Indianapolis, IN
About The Trade Show:
Work Truck Week is the leading annual event for the commercial vehicle industry, bringing together chassis OEMs, fleets, upfitters, equipment manufacturers, dealers, and engineering teams for a comprehensive look at the latest innovations. Hosted by NTEA, the 2026 edition features 500+ exhibitors showcasing new commercial vehicles, equipment, and technology shaping the future of work trucks and vocational fleets.
Attendees can access OEM updates, explore advanced vehicle technologies, and gain practical insights on design, integration, and spec optimization. With thousands of professionals on-site, the event offers valuable opportunities for collaboration, customer meetings, and new business development. After more than 25 years of evolution, Work Truck Week continues to be an essential hub for product discovery, technical guidance, and industry-wide connection.
3. Keystone BIG Show
When: March 13 – 14, 2026
Where: Grapevine, TX
About The Trade Show:
The Keystone Automotive BIG Show is a leading trade event for the specialty automotive parts and accessories industry, bringing together top suppliers, manufacturers, and customers in a focused, business-friendly setting. It is considered one of the most impactful shows outside of SEMA. The 2026 edition offers a relaxed environment ideal for product discovery, relationship building, and market insight.
Attendees can explore new aftermarket innovations, meet directly with key decision-makers and stay current with emerging trends shaping the specialty automotive sector.The BIG Show remains a valuable annual destination for professionals looking to strengthen industry connections and evaluate the latest products.
When: March 16 – 19, 2026
Where: Nashville, TN
About The Trade Show:
The ATA’s Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual Meeting is the trucking industry’s leading event for advancing fleet technology, maintenance practices, and equipment performance. The gathering brings together fleet executives, maintenance leaders, engineers, and suppliers to address the technical challenges and innovations shaping modern trucking.
Attendees can explore the Transportation Technology Exhibition, participate in task force meetings, and engage in sessions focused on improving safety, efficiency, and operational reliability. With its strong emphasis on real-world problem-solving and technology-driven progress, TMC remains an essential destination for industry professionals.
5. NORTHEAST
When: March 20 – 22, 2026
Where: Secaucus, NJ
About The Trade Show:
NORTHEAST is a flagship event for automotive repair professionals, bringing together shop owners, technicians, and suppliers for a hands-on look at the newest tools, technologies, and services shaping the industry. Just minutes from New York City, the show offers a fast-paced environment filled with live demos, product showcases, and expert-led seminars designed to enhance skills and strengthen business performance.
With high-energy presentations, nonstop networking, and unique opportunities not found at traditional training events, NORTHEAST remains a must-attend for anyone serious about staying ahead in automotive repair. Contests, special events, and valuable giveaways add to the experience, making the 2026 edition an impactful destination for growth and industry connection.
When: March 26 – 28, 2026
Where: Louisville, KY
About The Trade Show:
The Mid-America Trucking Show is the largest trucking event in North America, bringing together fleet operators, owner-operators, manufacturers, and suppliers for an expansive look at the industry’s newest equipment and innovations. MATS 2026 will span more than one million square feet of exhibit space with 850+ exhibitors showcasing trucks, trailers, parts, technology, and services.
With over 54,000 attendees and more than 40 featured events, the show offers unmatched opportunities for networking, product evaluation, and industry insight. From hands-on demos to expert discussions on emerging trends, MATS remains the premier annual destination for professionals committed to the future of trucking.
7. New York Auto Show
When: April 03 – 12, 2026
Where: New York, NY
About The Trade Show:
The New York International Auto Show is one of the most influential automotive events in North America, drawing global manufacturers, suppliers, and enthusiasts to the Javits Center each spring. The 2026 edition spans ten days and more than one million square feet of exhibit space, offering a comprehensive look at the industry’s newest models, concepts, and technologies.
Attendees can explore over 700 vehicles, experience 100+ engagement zones, and see major product unveilings from leading brands. With its mix of consumer excitement and industry impact, the New York Auto Show remains a defining moment on the automotive calendar and a key platform for showcasing the future of mobility.
When: April 13 – 15, 2026
Where: Cleveland, OH
About The Trade Show:
The NAFA Institute & Expo (I&E) is the premier gathering for fleet professionals, bringing together more than 2,100 leaders responsible for optimizing fleet operations across industries. The 2026 edition offers three days of education, strategy, and hands-on exploration of the newest products and services from 230+ top suppliers.
Attendees can access immersive learning sessions, industry-leading keynotes, and extended pre-conference workshops designed to address both daily operational challenges and long-term fleet strategy. The Expo Hall showcases the latest vehicles, technologies, and management solutions, while the Ride & Drive and EV Test Track provide opportunities to experience emerging models firsthand. For fleet managers looking to strengthen capabilities, build connections, and stay aligned with the industry’s direction, NAFA I&E remains an essential annual event.
9. Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology Expo South
When: April 22 – 23, 2026
Where: Charlotte, NC
About The Trade Show:
The Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology Expo South is a key regional event supporting the rapidly expanding hybrid and electric vehicle value chain. Held at the Charlotte Convention Center, the 2026 edition brings together engineers, manufacturers, suppliers, and technology leaders driving innovation in EV components, battery systems, charging infrastructure, and advanced materials.
Attendees can explore solutions from 260+ suppliers, hear insights from 100+ expert speakers, and connect with more than 3,000 professionals shaping the future of electric mobility. The show spans a wide range of applications from automotive and energy storage to aerospace, industrial equipment, and recycling technologies.
Browse through our portfolio to find booth ideas for your upcoming Trade Shows!
10. WCX
When: April 14 – 16, 2026
Where: Detroit, MI
About The Trade Show:
The SAE World Congress Experience (WCX) is one of the most influential technical events for the global automotive and mobility engineering community. Organized by SAE International, the show brings together OEMs, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, engineers, and technology leaders driving vehicle design, safety, and performance innovation.
WCX offers exhibitors direct access to decision-makers involved in advanced materials, electrification, autonomy, and vehicle systems development. With a strong technical program and a highly qualified exhibit floor, the event provides a focused environment for showcasing engineering solutions, building industry relationships, and generating high-value leads.
11. ACT Expo
When: May 04 – 07, 2026
Where: Las Vegas, NV
About The Trade Show:
ACT Expo is North America’s largest advanced commercial vehicle technology event. The show focuses on clean transportation, fleet sustainability, and next-generation vehicle solutions across trucking, transit, and last-mile delivery.
The event attracts fleet operators, OEMs, regulators, and technology providers shaping the future of commercial transportation. For exhibitors, ACT Expo offers strong exposure to decision-makers evaluating alternative fuels, electric vehicles, and infrastructure investments at scale.
12. NPTC Annual Conference
When: May 09 – 11, 2026
Where: Orlando, FL
About The Trade Show:
The NPTC Annual Education Management Conference & Exhibition is a leading event for private fleet professionals. Hosted by the National Private Truck Council, the conference focuses on fleet operations, safety, compliance, and cost management.
The show brings together fleet executives and operations leaders with direct purchasing authority. Exhibitors benefit from a highly targeted audience seeking solutions related to fleet efficiency, technology, and service optimization.
When: May 11 – 13, 2026
Where: Nashville, TN
About The Trade Show:
The Car Wash Show™ is the largest and most comprehensive event for the car wash and vehicle care industry. Produced by the International Carwash Association, the show attracts owners, operators, investors, and suppliers representing every segment of the market.
Featuring a large-scale exhibit hall, live demonstrations, and education sessions, the event gives exhibitors access to buyers actively seeking equipment, technology, and service solutions. The Car Wash Show™ offers strong opportunities for product visibility, lead generation, and relationship-building with high-intent purchasers.
14. AutoTech
When: June 02 – 04, 2026
Where: Novi, MI
About The Trade Show:
AutoTech is a leading technology-focused automotive event centered on innovation in mobility, connectivity, electrification, and vehicle intelligence. The show brings together automotive OEMs, suppliers, startups, and solution providers working across hardware, software, and manufacturing ecosystems.
The event provides exhibitors direct engagement with engineers, product leaders, and executives evaluating next-generation automotive technologies. With a curated exhibition and conference format, AutoTech offers a strategic platform for demonstrating capabilities and forming partnerships within the evolving mobility landscape.
20×20 Trade Show Booth Rental at NADA Show 2025, New Orleans, LA
15. NATDA Trailer Show
When: September 01 – 03, 2026
Where: Nevada
About The Trade Show:
The NATDA Trailer Show is the leading trade event dedicated to the light- and medium-duty trailer industry. Organized by the North American Trailer Dealers Association, the show brings together manufacturers, dealers, and suppliers across multiple trailer segments.
The event offers exhibitors direct access to dealership owners and purchasing decision-makers seeking new products and partnerships. With a focused exhibit floor and education sessions, the NATDA Trailer Show serves as a key platform for business development and channel growth.
16. Intermodal Expo
When: September 14 – 16, 2026
Where: Long Beach, CA
About The Trade Show:
The Intermodal Expo, organized by the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA), is the leading event for intermodal freight transportation. The show connects rail, trucking, shipping, and logistics professionals involved in moving freight efficiently across North America.
The event provides exhibitors access to senior leaders and decision-makers evaluating equipment, technology, and service solutions across the intermodal supply chain. With a focused audience and strong industry participation, Intermodal Expo offers valuable opportunities for relationship-building and business development.
When: September 16 – 20, 2026
Where: Hershey, PA
About The Trade Show:
America’s Largest RV Show is the premier consumer-focused event for the recreational vehicle industry. The show features hundreds of RV models, accessories, and service providers, attracting RV enthusiasts, buyers, and industry professionals from across the country.
For exhibitors, the event offers direct access to high-intent consumers actively researching and purchasing RVs and related products. With large attendance and strong on-site buying activity, the show provides significant opportunities for lead generation, product education, and brand engagement.
18. AAPEX
When: November 03 – 05, 2026
Where: Las Vegas, NV
About The Trade Show:
AAPEX is the premier global event for the automotive aftermarket industry, bringing together manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and service professionals from around the world. The show focuses on replacement parts, tools, equipment, and advanced aftermarket technologies.
With thousands of qualified buyers and decision-makers in attendance, AAPEX delivers strong brand exposure and lead-generation opportunities for exhibitors. The expansive exhibit hall and education program make it a key marketplace for launching products and strengthening channel relationships across the aftermarket supply chain.
19. SEMA Show
When: November 03 – 06, 2026
Where: Las Vegas, NV
About The Trade Show:
The SEMA Show is the world’s leading trade event for specialty automotive products and customization. Hosted by the Specialty Equipment Market Association, the show attracts manufacturers, builders, retailers, and media representing performance, restyling, and automotive lifestyle markets.
SEMA offers exhibitors unmatched visibility through a high-energy exhibit environment, product debuts, and extensive media coverage. With attendees focused on sourcing innovative products and identifying emerging trends, the show provides exceptional opportunities for brand exposure, networking, and market expansion.
20. PRI Show
When: December 10 – 12, 2026
Where: Indianapolis, IN
About The Trade Show:
The Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show is the premier annual trade event for the motorsports and racing industry. The show connects manufacturers, distributors, race teams, and sanctioning bodies across all forms of professional and amateur racing.
PRI provides exhibitors with access to highly specialized buyers and influencers focused on performance parts, technology, and services. The event’s concentrated audience and expansive exhibit hall make it an essential venue for lead generation and brand visibility within the racing community.
Conclusion,
The 2026 calendar reinforces just how vital automotive and trucking trade shows are to industry progress. These shows are catalysts for the technology and partnerships that move the industry forward.
For exhibitors, the value is long-term and measurable i.e. stronger pipelines, deeper partnerships, and a more authoritative presence in an increasingly competitive landscape. With decades of hands-on experience, Exponents helps brands navigate the complexity of exhibiting and transform their trade show booth rental into a high-impact business asset.
As 2026 approaches, the companies that prepare strategically will be the ones shaping the road ahead.
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