The 2024 Akrapovic Dealer Training Event (ADT) in Slovenia was more than just a training session—it was an immersive experience showcasing the innovation, precision, and passion that make Akrapovic the undisputed leader in high-performance exhaust systems. For PERON Automotive and few of our UK dealers—RPM Technik, R44 Performance, and Carbonwurks—this event was an extraordinary opportunity to witness Akrapovič’s craftsmanship, cutting-edge facilities, and commitment to excellence up close.
The event also provided a valuable platform to connect with the people behind Akrapovic’s success, from the engineers and designers to the strategists and sales teams. It was equally rewarding to engage with Akrapovic’s top dealers and distributors from around the globe, who, like PERON, proudly supply these precision-engineered systems to the performance aftermarket. The shared enthusiasm and expertise among attendees underscored Akrapovic’s global influence and the strength of its dealer network.
Arrival in Ljubljana: A Warm Welcome
Our time in Slovenia began with a warm welcome at the luxurious Grand Plaza Hotel in the heart of Ljubljana. Awaiting attendees outside the hotel was a G87 BMW M2 fitted with Akrapovic’s Slip-On Line exhaust system, Octagonal Carbon Tailpipes, and a matching Rear Carbon Diffuser—a showcase of the artistry and performance attendees would come to expect throughout the event.
Inside the Grand Plaza, attendees were treated to top-tier accommodations. Panoramic windows offered breathtaking views of Ljubljana Castle and the surrounding mountains, while the hotel’s contemporary furnishings and exceptional cuisine set the tone for an experience that was both professional and indulgent. The hotel’s sophisticated ambiance underscored Akrapovic’s commitment to excellence, even in the smallest details.
An Evening of Slovenian Heritage
The event began with a welcome dinner at a historic Ljubljana Castle, a venue that perfectly reflected the country’s deep sense of heritage and pride. Surrounded by the castle's timeless architecture, attendees were treated to an array of traditional Slovenian dishes and locally sourced wines. Slovenia is a nation renowned for its dedication to quality and craftsmanship, whether in its cuisine, wine, or, as we were reminded throughout the event, its engineering excellence. This commitment to excellence is evident in every Akrapovic exhaust system—a product born from the same Slovenian ethos of meticulous attention to detail and pride in production.
The evening provided a relaxed and informal setting for attendees to reconnect with familiar faces and build new relationships. Dealers and Akrapovic representatives from around the world shared insights, discussed industry trends, and bonded over a shared passion for performance. It was the perfect start to the event, grounding the following days of technical deep dives and factory tours in a sense of community and shared purpose.
During the meal, Igor Akrapovič, the founder of Akrapovic, took the stage to personally welcome all attendees to Ljubljana. His heartfelt words underscored the brand’s unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence, while expressing gratitude for the global community of dealers and partners who continue to drive Akrapovic’s success.
Inside Akrapovic: A Closer Look at World-Class Facilities and Factory
The heart of the event was the comprehensive tour of Akrapovic’s world-class manufacturing facilities. This wasn’t just a cursory walkthrough—it was a deep dive into every stage of production, showcasing the innovation and expertise that define the brand. From initial concepts and prototypes to rigorous performance testing and final manufacturing, the tour provided attendees with an unparalleled look at what makes Akrapovic a global leader in high-performance exhaust systems.
In-House Titanium Foundry
A standout feature of the tour was Akrapovic’s in-house titanium foundry—one of the largest of its kind in the world. Here, raw titanium is transformed into lightweight, high-performance exhaust components. Witnessing the casting process firsthand was a rare privilege and revealed just how much effort goes into creating the brand’s signature systems. The foundry allows Akrapovic to maintain complete control over material quality and ensure their components meet stringent performance and durability standards. This focus on quality is one of the many reasons why Akrapovic exhaust systems are trusted by major manufacturers, racing teams and automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
The Art of Welding
Akrapovic’s skilled welders—considered among the best in the industry—were another standout feature of the visit. These craftsmen undergo years of training to create welds that are as aesthetically flawless as they are functional. Guests were given the opportunity to try welding titanium themselves, offering a firsthand appreciation of the skill, precision, and patience required. This hands-on experience reinforced why Akrapovic’s welding is not just a manufacturing process, but an art form that ensures every exhaust system meets the demands of motorsport and high-performance vehicles.
Engineering, Testing, and Validation
Attendees also had the opportunity to explore Akrapovic’s advanced engineering and testing facilities. The sound engineering team demonstrated how they meticulously tune each exhaust to produce Akrapovic’s signature auditory profile—a deep, rich tone that excites drivers while maintaining cabin comfort. Using cutting-edge acoustic testing equipment, the team strikes a balance between performance and an unforgettable driving experience.
The testing labs were equally impressive. Prototypes are subjected to rigorous analysis to evaluate factors such as airflow, weight reduction, and durability. The facility also houses a state-of-the-art dyno cell where systems are tested under extreme conditions to validate performance metrics. These measures ensure that Akrapovic systems deliver measurable gains in power and responsiveness while seamlessly integrating with factory setups.
A Fully Integrated Process
One of the most striking aspects of the tour was the fully integrated nature of Akrapovic’s operations. Every step—from casting raw titanium to the final packaging of finished products—happens under one roof. This vertical integration gives Akrapovic unparalleled control over quality and innovation, enabling them to continuously push the boundaries of what is possible in performance exhaust systems.
The factory tour wasn’t just a showcase of technology; it was a testament to Akrapovic’s relentless commitment to excellence. Attendees left with a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship, engineering, and passion that go into every system—a level of detail and dedication that cements Akrapovic’s position as a leader in the performance aftermarket.
Demonstrations: Experiencing the Akrapovic Difference
One of the most impactful moments of the event was the chance to engage directly with Akrapovic’s latest products, both visually and aurally. Hearing the roar of the latest Porsche Cayenne and Panamera systems, alongside the unmistakable tone of the latest Mercedes-AMG G 63 and the C 43 and C 63 exhausts, brought the engineering behind these systems to life. While it’s one thing to read about the benefits of an Akrapovic exhaust, experiencing the sound, build quality, and craftsmanship firsthand is something that can’t be replicated. For dealers, this experience is invaluable, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to articulate the Akrapovic difference to their customers.
We also had the opportunity to learn about some of the exciting products set for release in late 2024 and 2025. These included systems for several eagerly awaited vehicles across major marques.
Akrapovic’s upcoming product launches reflect their dedication to pushing boundaries in both performance and aesthetics, cementing their status as the global leader in high-performance exhaust systems.
Among the highlights are:
- Porsche: Systems for the 992.2 Carrera, 992.2 GTS, 976 Panamera (V6 and V8), and 536.2 Cayenne (V6 and V8).
- BMW: The highly anticipated exhaust for the G90 M5.
- Mercedes-AMG: Systems for the W465 G 63, W206/S206 C 43 and C 63, and GT63.
- Audi: Updates for the 4M RSQ8 Facelift and 8Y RS3 Facelift.
- Toyota: A next-generation exhaust for the Gen 2 GR Yaris.
The Conference: Insights from Akrapovic’s Leaders
The Akrapovic Dealer Training Event reached a pivotal moment with a series of engaging presentations from key members of Akrapovic’s leadership and technical teams. These sessions offered an in-depth look at the engineering, manufacturing, and strategic vision that drive the brand’s success. From production experts to global sales leaders, the speakers shared valuable insights into what makes Akrapovic the global leader in high-performance exhaust systems.
A standout aspect of the conference was its interactive nature, which encouraged attendees to actively participate. Dealers and distributors were invited to ask questions, share feedback, and discuss trends in their respective markets. This collaborative atmosphere created an open dialogue that strengthened relationships and provided new perspectives on how Akrapovic can continue to support its dealer network.
The presentations also built on the knowledge gained during the factory tour. Leaders expanded on key topics like the advanced processes in the titanium foundry, the craftsmanship behind precision welding, and the rigorous testing and validation that ensure every product meets Akrapovic’s exacting standards. These discussions brought a deeper understanding of how the company’s innovations translate into the unmatched quality and performance that customers expect.
The conference wasn’t just a chance to learn—it was a platform for collaboration. By connecting directly with the people behind the brand, attendees gained a clearer understanding of Akrapovic’s dedication to excellence at every level. Discussions covered everything from the upcoming product launches for 2025 to ways Akrapovic and its dealers can work together to better serve the performance aftermarket.
Slovenian Hospitality: A Toast to a Successful Event
After the conference, attendees were treated to a captivating demonstration of Slovenian winemaking techniques, offering a glimpse into the nation’s proud artisanal heritage. The process of disgorging sparkling wine—removing yeast sediment under water to achieve a crystal-clear finish—exemplified the precision and dedication that Slovenian craftspeople bring to their work. Just as winemakers strive for perfection in every step of their process—from fermentation to the final pour—Akrapovic applies the same meticulous care to their exhaust systems. Whether refining titanium components in their in-house foundry or perfecting the acoustics of an exhaust note, Akrapovič’s commitment to excellence mirrors Slovenia’s legacy of artisanal mastery.
Over glasses of local Slovenian wine, the group reflected on the knowledge and experiences gained throughout the event. The informal setting fostered engaging conversations about the insights gleaned from the factory tour, the unveiling of new products, and the future of the performance aftermarket. It was a fitting conclusion to the event, highlighting the strength of the global Akrapovic dealer network—united by a shared passion for innovation, precision, and the pursuit of excellence.
Exploring Ljubljana and Closing Conversations
With the official Akrapovic events concluded, many attendees took the opportunity to explore the vibrant streets of Ljubljana together. The city’s historic charm, local cuisine, and relaxed atmosphere created the perfect environment for more informal networking. Evening meals became an extension of the event, as conversations about Akrapovic and the broader performance aftermarket carried on well into the night.
The following morning, attendees departed for their respective destinations, inspired and armed with a wealth of knowledge to better represent Akrapovic in their home markets. The event reinforced the strength of the Akrapovic global dealer network and the shared commitment to delivering excellence.
As the dealers returned to their respective parts of the world, it was clear that the experience in Slovenia had not only deepened their understanding of Akrapovic’s innovation but also strengthened the bonds that will drive future success. Events like these demonstrate the value of coming together as a network, ensuring that the Akrapovic brand continues to set the benchmark for quality and performance in the aftermarket industry.
Partnering with PERON Automotive
As the exclusive importer of Akrapovic exhaust systems for the UK and Ireland since 2013, PERON Automotive is proud to be your trusted partner for all things Akrapovic. Whether you’re looking to enhance your vehicle’s performance, sound, or aesthetics, our in-depth expertise and close relationship with Akrapovic ensure you receive unparalleled support and access to the very best in high-performance exhaust systems.
If you’re interested in learning more about Akrapovic products, finding your nearest hand-picked dealer, or discussing how PERON Automotive can support your business, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is ready to assist you in experiencing the Akrapovic difference—a hardware upgrade with no compromises.
Contact us today to begin your journey toward exceptional performance and precision engineering.