First-Timer's Guide to AutoTech 2026: Tips, Highlights, and Must-Knows

Welcome to your essential first-timer's guide to AutoTech 2026, where the future of software-defined vehicles, autonomous systems, and connected mobility converges in one immersive environment. Whether you're an OEM executive navigating the shift to software-driven revenue models, a Tier 1 supplier scaling ADAS implementation, or a startup founder disrupting traditional automotive paradigms, this AutoTech 2026 event guide will help you maximize every strategic opportunity at Detroit's premier automotive technology gathering.

Taking place June 2-4, 2026, at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, Michigan, AutoTech 2026 - Monetizing the Connected Car - isn't just another industry conference. It's where North America's automotive ecosystem tackles the most pressing challenges in vehicle electrification, AI integration, and the race to autonomous deployment. This how to prepare for AutoTech 2026 guide delivers the insider knowledge you need to navigate the event with confidence.

AutoTech 2026 represents the convergence point for everyone architecting automotive's software-defined future. The event creates a unified experience where conference content, exhibition technology, dedicated networking opportunities, and industry recognition operate in one integrated environment.

What Makes AutoTech Different:

• Unified Ecosystem: Conference sessions, exhibition floor, networking lounges, and awards ceremony in one space—eliminating the fragmentation that dilutes value at traditional events

• Curated OEM Access: Our delegate model brings automakers, Tier 1 decision-makers, and technology providers into structured conversations that accelerate partnerships

• Software-Defined Focus: Addressing the fundamental shift from hardware-centric to software-driven business models

• Year-Round Platform: Engagement extends beyond three days through our 365 digital ecosystem

The AutoTech 2026 Experience:

• Conference Programming: Four dedicated tracks (Connected Mobility, Software, UI & UX, ADAS & Autonomy) with three cross-cutting themes (AI, Electrification, Telematics & Data)

• Exhibition Floor: Two-day showcase of technologies solving real implementation challenges

• Structured Networking: Dedicated lounges, curated receptions, and matchmaking programs

• AutoTech & Wards 10 Best Awards: Combined for the first time, celebrating how innovation drives new revenue streams

For Automakers: Complimentary Access

Automaker Pass (Free): Full access to conference, exhibition, and networking events.

VIP Pass (Free – Automaker Director+): Enhanced access including premium VIP networking experiences, executive roundtables, and private meeting spaces (pending approval).

Secure an Automaker or VIP Pass HERE

What to Pack

Professional Essentials:

• Business cards (bring plenty, networking is intensive)

• Fully charged devices and portable chargers

• Laptop or tablet for technical demonstrations

• Business casual acceptable across the conference, exhibition floor and networking events

• Comfortable, professional shoes

Strategic Tools:

• Technical specifications or product roadmaps (digital format)

• Target OEM/Tier 1 list with specific decision-makers

• Elevator pitch variations for different audiences

• Questions prepared for specific conference sessions

Travel Discounts to Detroit (DTW)

We're excited to partner with select airlines to offer exclusive discounts for AutoTech 2026 attendees, making your journey to Detroit more affordable and convenient.

Directions from Detroit Metro Airport:

Take I-94 West to I-275 North to I-96 West; follow exits 162, 160, or 159 to Grand River Avenue. Suburban Collection Showplace is on Grand River Avenue.

Complete registration here before arriving. Don't forget to use promo code FIRSTTIMER for 25% off if you're attending for the first time. Onsite registration opens at 7:30 AM on June 3, arrive early to collect your badge, set up the event app, and start networking before keynotes begin at 9:00 AM.

Conference Tracks:

• Connected Mobility: V2X protocols, 5G infrastructure, cybersecurity frameworks, cloud integration

• Software: Software-defined architectures, OTA updates, AI/ML integration, subscription revenue models

• UI & UX: Branded digital experiences, subscription platforms, AI personalization, voice interfaces

• ADAS & Autonomy: Sensor fusion, safety validation, regulatory compliance, market opportunities

Cross-Track Themes:

AI Integration, Electrification, Telematics & Data weave throughout all tracks.

Session Formats:

• Keynotes (9:00 AM daily)
• Conference Track Sessions (45-minute deep-dives)
• AutoTech Forums (interactive Q&A)
• Workshops (hands-on learning, Conference Pass required)
• Exhibition Demonstrations (10:00 AM - 6:00 PM)

Using the Event App:

Your command center for personalized agenda building, real-time updates, networking features, interactive maps, session materials, and live Q&A.

Strategic Scheduling Tips:

• Anchor with keynotes each morning
• Don't just stick to one track, sample others for cross-functional insights
• Dedicate time to exhibition exploration
• Build in 20-minute buffers between sessions
• Leave room for networking lounge conversations

AutoTech networking tips focus on quality over quantity in an industry where partnerships determine competitive advantage.

AutoTech Keynotes - Industry visionaries set the context for the entire event.

Wednesday, 3 June:

9:05 am - 9:30 am - The Future of Connected Cars: Strategies, Technologies & Experiences
9:30 am - 9:55 am - Emerging Trends in the Connected Car Ecosystem

Thursday, 4 June:

9:10 am - 9:55 am - Innovate, Integrate, Inspire: How Automakers Are Shaping the Future of Mobility
4:25 pm - 5:20 pm - Building Tomorrow's Software Ecosystem

Exhibition Floor: Evaluate production-ready solutions, discover startup innovations, experience live demonstrations, and engage solution providers who can accelerate your roadmap. Check out who will be exhibiting ➡️

AutoTech Forums: Rapid-fire Q&A tackling questions like ADAS validation in edge cases, optimal OTA architectures, subscription pricing strategies, and cybersecurity frameworks.

AutoTech & WardsAuto 10 Best Awards (June 2): First-time combined celebration of breakthrough technologies and innovative business models. Meet the 2026 WardsAuto 10 Best Winners ➡️

Omdia Automotive Breakfast Briefing (June 3): Market intelligence on ADAS adoption forecasts, competitive landscape, investment trends, and regulatory approaches (Conference Pass required).

COVESA Evening Reception (June 3): Off-site networking with the connected vehicle standards community, critical for V2X and software-defined architecture professionals.

Networking Lounges: Where deals are made- comfortable spaces for in-depth partnership discussions with premium access for Conference Pass holders.

AutoTech 2026 - Monetizing the Connected Car - represents more than three days of content and networking. It's your gateway to the conversations, connections, and innovations shaping automotive's future. This first-timer's guide to AutoTech 2026 has equipped you with the practical knowledge to navigate the event with confidence.

From understanding AutoTech 2026 tips for attendees to mastering networking strategies, you're now prepared to maximize every moment of this immersive experience. The automotive industry is transforming at unprecedented speed. AutoTech 2026 is where you position yourself at the center of that transformation.

Ready for AutoTech 2026? Register Now and use promo code FIRSTTIMER for 25% off your first visit!

Download the event app, complete your profile, and begin scheduling meetings with industry leaders who will shape your success.

Stay Connected:

- Join the conversation using #AutoTech2026
- Download and explore the Event App to connect with attendees before June 2