When our team travels to Wolfsburg at the end of October for the International Suppliers Fair (IZB), it is about more than just another trade show. What began with our first participation in 2012 as an additional opportunity to exchange ideas with customers and industry representatives has since become an integral part of our sales and technology communication activities.
Since then, the IZB has developed into an important platform for KIRCHHOFF Automotive to showcase technologies, maintain customer relationships, and initiate new projects.
Its close connection to Volkswagen has made the IZB an important meeting place for decision-makers, engineers, and purchasing professionals from across the automotive industry for many years. As a result, our presence at the event has also evolved: from a platform for presenting selected products into a forum for technology and innovation dialogue.
“Since our first appearance at IZB in 2012, the IZB supplier fair has developed into a key trade fair for KIRCHHOFF Automotive, providing direct access to decision-makers at Volkswagen,” emphasizes Dr. Heiko Engels, Member of the Executive Board & CTO.
The growing importance of the trade fair became particularly evident during our most recent appearance in 2024. Right at the start of the event, we welcomed senior Volkswagen Group and brand executives to our booth. As one of only six exhibitors selected out of a total of 843, KIRCHHOFF Automotive’s innovations were featured during an exclusive VIP Tech Walk attended by approximately 50 members of Volkswagen management.
A key focus was our innovative silicon-boron steel SIBORA. Together with VW Group Innovation, we presented research findings highlighting new opportunities for the further development of vehicle body structures. We also showcased various material and manufacturing concepts, including solutions based on reduced-CO₂ steel. In addition, we contributed to industry discussions on the transformation of the automotive sector during the “Green Steel” workshop.
“The IZB has always provided an ideal platform for professional exchange, while also enabling the personal interactions valued by both sides in a relaxed atmosphere. This already successful concept, and the fair’s reputation as a leading event for suppliers, was further enhanced during our 2024 appearance,” says Johannes Schauf, Director Sales.
We are now building on this momentum. Our IZB 2026 appearance will be held under the motto “Engineered for Your Needs.” The focus will be on demonstrating how lightweight design, cost efficiency, manufacturing processes, and material concepts can be tailored to meet a wide range of customer requirements.
One answer is provided by SIBORA Next Generation, the further development of the SIBORA steel grade first introduced in 2024. The future of body-in-white engineering does not lie in standardized solutions, but in materials optimized for specific applications. This is exactly where SIBORA Next Generation comes in. The targeted use of zinc or AlSi coatings creates new degrees of freedom in component design. Depending on load requirements, installation position, and manufacturing process, the most suitable surface variant can be selected. This modular material concept offers high corrosion resistance, reduced component weight, high process reliability in hot forming, and locally tailored component properties.
Another focus area will be crash management systems based on different material and manufacturing concepts. Exhibits will include cold-formed steel solutions, galvanized systems, and aluminum designs. The portfolio will be complemented by partially press-hardened concepts that enable targeted strength distribution within a component.
Visitors will also gain insights into various instrument panel carrier solutions, including steel, aluminum, and hybrid concepts. As modern vehicle platforms have very different requirements, we will present multiple approaches designed to address specific technical and economic conditions.
When the doors of IZB open on October 27, we will not only be showcasing new technologies, but also once again taking the opportunity to strengthen existing relationships, engage in new conversations, and discuss the future of mobility. We look forward to welcoming visitors to our booth 5118 in Hall 5 at the Allerpark exhibition grounds in Wolfsburg and to many inspiring exchanges throughout the event.
