Antonella Abbate • 9 June 2026

Did You Know?

The worlds oldest working mechanic is 97 years old.

Beige Volkswagen Beetle parked in grassy field.

Fabio Sabbioni: Still Turning Spanners at 97


At an age when most people have long since retired, Italian mechanic Fabio Sabbioni continues to do what he loves most—repairing vehicles and helping stranded motorists. Recognised by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest working car mechanic, Sabbioni remains active in his workshop in Arezzo, Italy, at 97 years of age. His remarkable story is one of dedication, resilience, and an unwavering passion for the automotive industry.


Born on 27 October 1927, Fabio began working as a mechanic in 1946 at just 19 years of age. What started as a job in the difficult post-war years soon became a lifelong vocation. Nearly eight decades later, he is still active in the trade, repairing vehicles and providing roadside assistance services to motorists throughout the region.


Throughout his career, Sabbioni has witnessed extraordinary changes in automotive technology. From the simple mechanical systems of the 1940s to today's sophisticated, computer-controlled vehicles, he has adapted to an industry that has evolved dramatically over the years. He has worked on countless makes and models, assisted generations of drivers, and built a reputation for reliability, skill, and craftsmanship.
Beige Volkswagen Beetle parked in grassy field.

In 2022, Guinness World Records officially recognised Fabio as the oldest working mechanic in the world. Rather than slowing down, he went on to renew his own record in 2024, proving that age is no barrier to pursuing meaningful work. Even today, he continues to attend his workshop regularly and remains involved in day-to-day operations.


When asked about the secret to his longevity, Sabbioni's answer is refreshingly simple: never stop working. He believes that staying active, maintaining a routine, and continuing to do the work he loves have all contributed to his long and fulfilling life. His dedication serves as an inspiration not only to mechanics but to people from all walks of life.


Fabio's story is more than a record-breaking achievement; it is a testament to the value of experience, dedication, and passion for a trade. In an era of rapid technological change, he represents the enduring spirit of the automotive profession and demonstrates that enthusiasm for learning and serving others does not diminish with age.


As of the latest verified reports, Fabio Sabbioni remains alive and actively involved in the automotive industry at 97 years old. His extraordinary career spans almost 80 years, making him a living reminder of the skill, commitment, and pride that define the automotive trade. For apprentices just beginning their journey and experienced technicians alike, his story is proof that a career built on passion can truly last a lifetime.

Toyota to Offer Factory GVM Upgrade on Selected Models

by Antonella Abbate • 28 May 2026
Toyota Australia is set to introduce a factory-backed Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) upgrade package for selected four-wheel-drive models from August, providing owners with a higher legal payload capacity while retaining full factory warranty support and compliance.

Australia’s EV Love Affair Accelerates – and China is Leading the Charge

by Antonella Abbate • 25 May 2026
Across the Tasman this week, Chinese automotive giant BYD confirmed that almost 5,000 electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles are currently bound for Australia aboard its own dedicated vehicle carrier, the BYD Zhengzhou. The shipment, carrying 4,810 vehicles, marks the first Australian voyage of one of BYD’s purpose-built roll-on/roll-off vessels and is expected to dock in Melbourne before continuing to Sydney and Brisbane. What makes this story significant is not simply the size of the shipment, but what it says about the Australian market. BYD has already announced plans to bring an additional 30,000 new-energy vehicles to Australia in the coming months as demand for electric vehicles and hybrids continues to surge. For decades, Australian motorists were among the most loyal supporters of Japanese manufacturers, with brands from Toyota, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Honda dominating local driveways. Few industry observers would have predicted that Chinese brands would achieve such rapid acceptance. Yet Australian consumers have embraced brands such as BYD, MG, GWM, Chery, Geely, Zeekr and others with remarkable speed, treating many of them as though they have been established players for generations. Australia’s transition mirrors trends seen throughout Europe and North America, where consumers are increasingly seeking lower running costs, improved technology, longer warranties and electrified drivetrains. The difference in Australia is that much of this growth is being driven by Chinese manufacturers rather than traditional Western brands. Affordability, strong specifications, competitive warranty programs and rapid product development have reshaped buyer perceptions almost overnight. BYD’s decision to deploy its own shipping fleet to Australia is perhaps the clearest signal yet that global manufacturers now view Australia as a strategic growth market. When a manufacturer is prepared to invest in dedicated logistics to deliver thousands of vehicles directly to Australian customers, it demonstrates confidence not only in its products but also in the appetite of Australian motorists for electrified transport. The message is simple: Australia's EV and hybrid revolution is no longer coming—it has arrived, and Chinese manufacturers are playing a leading role in shaping the next chapter of the nation's automotive landscape.

Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) announces new appointments

by Antonella Abbate • 25 May 2026
Mr Lamb brings decades of diverse leadership experience across various sectors, both domestically and internationally. Most recently, he served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Murray-Darling Association. Previously, Mr Lamb has held several executive roles with distinct peak body organisations, where he worked closely with government and industry. During his tenure, assisted many organisations to transition into new strategies and methodologies. With his notable experience, he is well positioned to lead the ARC at a time when the refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) industry is growing at a rapid pace. Mr Lamb succeeds Glenn Evans, who concluded his tenure in December 2025 after 17 years of service. ARC Chair Dr Greg Picker said he was pleased to welcome Mr Lamb to mark the next phase for the Council, which leads national governance of the RAC (also known as ARCtick) Permit Scheme. “The Board is pleased to appoint Mark Lamb as our new CEO. We look forward to working with him as we continue to deliver the ARCtick permit scheme and improve our service to industry. His passion and experience in leading peak body organisations perfectly aligns with the ARC’s priorities at this time and our vision for the future,” Dr Picker said. “It is a crucial time for the industry, and the Board is confident Mark will help us build on our momentum and continue deliver meaning outcomes for the ARC and the broader industry.”  Commenting on his appointment, Mr Lamb said, “I am thrilled to be given this opportunity to play this significant role, not just at the Australian Refrigeration Council, but in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.