The Russian automotive market is one of the most dynamic and resilient in the world. From the bustling streets of Moscow to the vast highways of Siberia, the demand for vehicles, components, and maintenance services remains robust. For industry professionals—whether you manufacture heavy-duty trucks, distribute auto parts, or run a high-tech service station—Moscow serves as the primary gateway to this expansive market.
The city hosts a sophisticated calendar of B2B trade fairs catering to every niche: commercial vehicles, passenger cars, logistics, and aftermarket services. Here is your essential guide to the premier automotive industry events in Moscow for 2026 and beyond.
1. MIMS Automobility St. Petersburg: The Flagship Event for the Entire Industry
If there is a single “must-attend” event on the Russian automotive calendar, it is MIMS Automobility St. Petersburg. Held annually, this exhibition serves as the main international platform for automotive production, the aftermarket, and the service industry.
Key Details:
- Dates: August 25–28, 2026
- Venue: Expoforum, St. Petersburg
- Frequency: Annual
Why It Matters:
MIMS Automobility is the meeting point where global manufacturers connect with the Russian supply chain. The show is comprehensive, covering the entire vehicle lifecycle from raw components to repair shop technology. It is a proven platform for signing distribution deals and assessing market competition.
Product Groups:
The exhibition floor is divided into several critical sectors, allowing professionals to zero in on their specific interests:
- Parts & Components: Engines, brake systems, chassis, body parts, filters.
- Diagnostics & Repair: Tools, paintwork equipment, tire repair, and bodywork repairs.
- Electronics & Batteries: Vehicle lighting, engine electronics, and electrical systems.
- Accessories & Tuning: Visual and technical customization, infotainment systems.
- Oils & Lubricants: Engine oils, coolants, additives, and care products.
- Alternative Drive Systems: Electric vehicle solutions and hydrogen fuel technology.
Who Attends:
The audience is strictly professional, including distributors, service station owners, corporate fleet managers, and procurement specialists from major Russian retailers. With an expected attendance of over 20,000 visitors and hundreds of exhibitors from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, this is the anchor event of the summer.
2. ComTrans: The Heavyweight Champion of Commercial Vehicles
For those operating in the logistics, construction, and public transport sectors, ComTrans is the definitive event. This International Exhibition for Commercial Vehicles focuses exclusively on trucks, buses, special equipment, and trailers.
Key Details:
- Dates: 22–25 September 2026
- Venue: Kazan Expo International Exhibition Centre (approximately 800 km east of Moscow)
- Frequency: Annual
- Founded: 1999
Important Location Note:
It is critical to note that the 2026 edition of ComTrans is moving to Kazan (the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan), approximately a 1.5-hour flight from Moscow. If you are transiting through Moscow, you must arrange onward travel to Kazan.
What to Expect:
ComTrans is backed by the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Ministry of Transport, giving the event significant political weight. The 2026 edition promises:
- The COMTRANS Arena: A business program featuring leaders from the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Ministry of Transport, and top industry companies.
- COMTRANS Drive (New for 2026): A live test drive of commercial vehicles on a dedicated 7-kilometer track. Attendees can evaluate the dynamics, maneuverability, and load performance of trucks, LCVs, and buses firsthand.
Product Focus:
- Trucks, Trailers, and Special Transport Vehicles
- Buses and Public Transport Solutions
- Logistics and Storage Technology
- Replacement Parts, Lubricants, and Tires
- Workshop Equipment and Insurance/Financing Services
Who Should Attend:
Fleet owners, logistics directors, construction equipment buyers, and public transport authorities.
3. InterAutoMechanica: The Aftermarket Specialist
Taking place annually in late summer, InterAutoMechanica is the new interpretation of the classic “Interauto” brand. This event positions itself as the No. 1 International Trade Fair for the Automotive Industry in Russia, with a heavy focus on the after-sales sector.
Key Details:
- Dates: August 18–21, 2026
- Venue: Crocus Expo IEC, Moscow
- Frequency: Annual
Why It Is Unique:
InterAutoMechanica is co-organized with the Autocom Association, ensuring direct access to key market players and solutions for supply chain challenges. It is designed specifically for the “secondary market”—the garages, service stations, and parts distributors that keep Russia’s existing vehicle fleet running.
Exhibitor Highlights (Confirmed for 2026):
The 2026 show features a strong mix of international and Russian brands, including:
- Distribution Leaders: ROSSKO and Avtorus.
- Japanese Quality Brands: LYNXauto, JIKIU, and MEIJI.
- Service Solutions: AMTEL, AutoAlliance, OLGA, AVLKRAFT.
- Oil & Chemicals: SUPROTEC, GNV, HimAuto, LUBRIGARD.
Product Scope:
- Spare parts and components
- Lubricants, technical fluids, and auto chemicals
- Garage equipment and diagnostic tools
- Body repair and paint materials
- Batteries, electronics, and IT solutions for fleets
- Car wash equipment
4. STO Expo & COMvex: The Logistics & Service Cluster
For professionals who want to maximize their trip, Moscow offers “clustered” events—multiple specialized exhibitions running simultaneously at the same venue.
Key Details (May 2026):
- Dates: May 26–29, 2026
- Venue: Crocus Expo IEC, Moscow
The Cluster Includes:
A. STO Expo (Service Station Expo)
This is the leading international exhibition for spare parts, after-sales service, and car maintenance. If you sell tools, lifts, diagnostic scanners, or consumables for repair shops, this is your target.
B. COMvex (Commercial Vehicle Expo)
Running concurrently, COMvex focuses on commercial transport and technology -5. It is a slightly different audience from ComTrans (which focuses on the vehicles themselves), often leaning into the technology and logistics software side of commercial fleets.
C. Logistika Expo
This event covers logistics, transport, warehouse equipment, and supply chain management -5. It is the perfect intersection for automotive parts suppliers looking to optimize their distribution networks.
5. Auto+Avtomechanika Moscow: The Spring Kickoff
Earlier in the spring, the Timiryazev Centre hosts the Auto+Avtomechanika Moscow exhibition.
Key Details:
- Dates: May 12–14, 2026
- Venue: Timiryazev Centre, Moscow
This is a smaller, more boutique event compared to the giants at Crocus Expo. However, it serves as a critical early-season “state of the market” check for local distributors. It is ideal for companies looking for a lower-cost entry point into the Russian market or those specifically targeting the Moscow regional dealer network.
Strategic Takeaways for International Attendees
1. Choose Your Timing Wisely:
- May (May 12–14 & May 26–29): The “Spring Logistics & Services” window. Focus on Auto+Avtomechanika, STO Expo, and COMvex. Great for equipment and service software.
- August (August 18–21 & Aug 25–28): The “Main Event” window. InterAutoMechanica (Crocus) followed immediately by MIMS Automobility (Expocentre). This is the peak season for spare parts and full vehicle production.
- September (Sept 22–25): The “Heavy Duty” window. ComTrans in Kazan for trucks and logistics.
2. Crocus Expo vs. Expocentre:
Navigation is critical. Crocus Expo is the massive facility on the far northwestern edge of Moscow (close to the airport). Expocentre is an older, large facility right next to the Moscow City business district in the center. Do not book a hotel near Crocus if you need to be at Expocentre the next day—traffic can be grueling.
3. The B2B Focus:
Unlike some consumer car shows, all of the events listed above are strictly B2B trade fairs. They are designed for negotiations, procurement, and networking, not for window shopping. Bring business cards, translators, and a clear pitching strategy.
4. The “Import Substitution” Effect:
With the shift in global supply chains, Russian buyers are actively seeking new partners. The presence of strong contingents from China, Turkey, and domestic Russian manufacturers at these fairs is higher than ever. For international suppliers, Moscow currently represents a market that is open and hungry for reliable partnerships.
Moscow’s automotive trade show landscape is vast, sophisticated, and essential for anyone serious about the Eastern European and Central Asian markets. Whether you are looking to roll out a new electric vehicle at MIMS Automobility, sign a contract for a fleet of heavy trucks at ComTrans, or sell diagnostic software to Russian garages at STO Expo, the Russian capital delivers the platform.
The roads of Russia are long, but the path to its market runs directly through these exhibition halls.
Upcoming Dates at a Glance:
| Event | Dates | Venue | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto+Avtomechanika Moscow | May 12–14, 2026 | Timiryazev Centre | Auto Parts & Service (Spring) |
| STO Expo 2026 | May 26–29, 2026 | Crocus Expo | Service Stations & Equipment |
| COMvex 2026 | May 26–29, 2026 | Crocus Expo | Commercial Vehicles |
| InterAutoMechanica 2026 | August 18–21, 2026 | Crocus Expo | Aftermarket & Spare Parts |
| MIMS Automobility Moscow 2026 | August 25–28, 2026 | Expocentre | Full Industry Spectrum |
| ComTrans 2026 | September 22–25, 2026 | Kazan Expo (Kazan) | Trucks, Buses & Trailers |