Fans of classic vehicles will soon have another reason to look forward to the Essen Motor Show. Starting in 2026, Messe Essen will take over the halls for classic cars from the previous organizer and will thus be the sole organizer of the festival for car enthusiasts. A new concept is bringing a breath of fresh air to the classic car scene and is already generating excitement among exhibitors and visitors alike. The Essen Motor Show will take place from November 28 to December 6, 2026 (preview day: November 27).
This is what the new format looks like: From next year, Hall 1 will be reserved for youngtimers (20–29 years old), while Hall 2 will be dedicated to classic cars (30 years old and above). Dealers, clubs, and private sellers will present their high-quality offerings in both halls. In addition, there will be two sales areas offering spare parts and accessories, model cars, vehicle care products, literature, and clothing. There are also plans to focus on classic motorsports and to invite former racing drivers to attend.
New: Awards, Specials, and Car Market
As special highlights, there will be changing specials on popular anniversaries in both halls. The most beautiful youngtimer and the most valuable classic car will also each receive an award, which will generate additional media attention. As a further innovation, the Essen Motor Show will include a car market from 2026. Commercial and private sellers will be able to offer their models for sale, with a total of 146 exhibition spaces available in Hall 1A. With this new offering, the Essen Motor Show will once again occupy the entire Messe Essen exhibition center for the first time.
“Classic cars have been an integral part of the Essen Motor Show for over four decades. Now it's time for a contemporary relaunch. That's why we're very excited to revamp this exhibition area starting in 2026. We're placing a focus on coupes and sporty models, which our fans are particularly enthusiastic about,” explains Ralf Sawatzki, project manager of the Essen Motor Show. “There has been a desire for a vehicle exchange for quite some time, and we are delighted that we can now make this a reality,” Sawatzki continues.
Registration for exhibitors possible from November 28, 2025
The response from the classic car industry has been overwhelmingly positive: "The Essen Motor Show is more relevant today than ever before! After the challenging years of the pandemic, we are seeing remarkable growth in visitor numbers, reflecting the undiminished appeal of cars and motorsports. The increasing number of exhibitors and the broader visitor structure underscore the enormous potential and future viability of the event. We are particularly pleased to see the high number of young visitors and families who are enthusiastic about the diverse topics on offer, from young and old-timers to the car market. The new concept of the EMS is in tune with the spirit of the times and once again highlights the great interest in automotive culture and motorsports," emphasizes Lutz Leif Linden, President of the Automobile Club of Germany.
The new concept has also been well received by the German Sports Drivers' Association. President Dr. Karl-Friedrich Ziegahn is convinced: "With its strategic expansion from 2026, the Essen Motor Show is impressively demonstrating its dynamism and market leadership. In a changing trade fair landscape, the decision to once again use the entire exhibition grounds and integrate new themed worlds is a clear commitment to strength and sustainability. This further development sharpens its profile as Europe's unique performance festival and ensures its relevance for exhibitors, visitors, fans, and active participants alike. For us at DSK, the trade fair is the most important meeting place of the year, and we look forward to accompanying it on its journey in the future."
Interested exhibitors can register for the 2026 trade fair on the Essen Motor Show website (www.essen-motorshow.de) starting November 28, 2025. They will benefit from an early bird discount until March 31, 2026.
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