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Innovation Kick-off: Startup Pitches Set the Tone
Even on the eve of the conference, it became clear where the aftermarket is heading. As part of a series of startup pitches, moderated by Automechanika representative Sarah Lindsey, emerging companies presented their innovative solutions for the industry.
The spotlight was on technologies such as electrification, data analytics, artificial intelligence and sustainability, all of which are opening up new approaches to diagnostics, maintenance and aftermarket business models. Several startups showcased their concepts, offering a tangible preview of future service and value creation potential.
The winner of the evening was the startup Clearly. Danielle Walsh, CEO of Clearly, stated: “We provide a platform that enables decision-making based on data rather than assumptions.”
The pitch sessions underscored how strongly innovation is now being driven by new market entrants – and how crucial their integration into existing ecosystems has become.
Data Act: An Important Step – But Far From the Finish Line
A central topic of the conference was the EU Data Act, widely regarded as a milestone for fair access to vehicle data. At the same time, it became clear that significant challenges remain in practice.
Field tests show that standardised real-time data and transparent pricing structures are still not sufficiently ensured. Without these foundations, the full potential of connected vehicles for the aftermarket remains limited.
In addition, regulatory ambiguity persists: unclear definitions of which data must be accessible – and which must not – create room for interpretation and, consequently, uncertainty in the market.
The industry’s message is clear:
Consistent enforcement of existing regulations is essential. OEMs must be held more accountable to ensure that legal requirements are not only formally in place but also effectively implemented in practice.
Competition Under Pressure: Focus on MVBER Beyond 2028
Beyond data access, competition was another key focus. The Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation (MVBER) has proven to be a stable framework for fair competition in the past.
However, the industry’s transformation – driven by digitalisation, software-based business models and new service concepts – is increasingly putting existing regulations to the test.
The message from Brussels:
An evolution of the MVBER beyond 2028 is essential to ensure that independent market players continue to have equal access to vehicle data, repair and maintenance information.
Europe’s Competitiveness: Time Becomes a Critical Factor
Overarching all discussions was the question of Europe’s global competitiveness. Delays in implementing the necessary regulatory frameworks could have far-reaching consequences – not only for individual companies, but for the entire region.
The industry warns of significant economic losses if required adjustments are not made in time. At the same time, the issue goes beyond economic interests:
A well-functioning, competitive aftermarket structure is a key prerequisite for affordable mobility across Europe.
More in Common Than Dividing
One notable outcome of the discussions was that, despite differing interests, there are increasingly many shared topics between authorised networks and the independent aftermarket.
Particularly in areas such as data access, cybersecurity and regulatory clarity, stakeholders face common challenges that can only be addressed through collaboration.
Conclusion: The Aftermarket at a Turning Point
The CLEPA Aftermarket Conference 2026 has made it clear that the European aftermarket is at a decisive crossroads.
From disruptive startup innovations to fundamental regulatory questions, one thing is evident:
The future of the aftermarket will be shaped equally by technology, regulation and collaboration.
The key challenge will be to establish a clear, fair and enforceable framework – while at the same time ensuring that innovation can be brought to market quickly.
