For the first time, this year’s Automechanika will offer a special platform for basic and advanced training and issue attendance certificates for a variety of courses, including paintwork and body repairs. Hence, automobile enthusiasts of all ages should make a note of two places during Automechanika 2012 – the Galleria and Hall 11 – now.

The noise level in the Galleria, the vaulted glass building between Halls 8 and 9, will be somewhat louder with lots of beating out, bending and spraying going on. The German Federation of Body and Automotive Engineering are planning three workshops on metalworking and body painting. Non-profit initiatives, such as ‘yourmove’ and the ‘Formula Student’ race track, will present hands-on exhibits including, in the latter case, a racing car and an electric racing car designed by students.

Bodywork and paintwork training courses:
The four-hour bodywork and paintwork course covers all aspects that could arise within the framework of a collision repair process – from computer damage calculation, via dent removal and the use of bench-type straightening systems, to joining methods (welding and bonding) and painting. At the end of the course, all participants will receive a certificate of attendance and an iPhone raffled among the best graduates.

The important subject of ‘Collision repairs on hybrid / electric vehicles’ will also be included. Opel with the new Ampera will support this training course. The model-specific operations will be demonstrated on the vehicle, so that participants easily follow the various steps. Participants will receive a certificate of attendance at the end of the three-hour course. In common with the other training activities, this event represents genuine practical ‘added value’ for participants and their companies.

Krafthand-Dekra professional training courses:
Aimed at professionals and instructors, the Krafthand-Dekra professional training courses cover subjects such as chassis and suspension/steering and loosening injectors. These courses have been held in a variety of cities since 2008. They are organised by ‘Krafthand’ magazine and DEKRA, and supported by companies such as Sauer-Werkzeug, Hella Gutmann Solutions, Coparts, Febi and Liqui Moly.

Automechanika dates are September 11th to the 16th in Frankfurt.