MAHLE and combustion engine manufacturer DEUTZ are the duo enthusiasts want to see
MAHLE has secured a significant series order from engine manufacturer DEUTZ to develop and supply components for hydrogen engines. This order includes power cell units, which comprise the piston, piston ring pack, and piston pin. DEUTZ plans to utilise these components in stationary hydrogen engines for the first time by the end of 2024.
The initiative will also extend to off-highway applications, such as agricultural and construction machinery. These new hydrogen engines can operate in a climate-neutral manner, as they use hydrogen produced from renewable sources, resulting in zero CO2 emissions during combustion.
Moreover, MAHLE brings years of expertise in developing engine systems for hydrogen and other climate-neutral fuels to this partnership. Arnd Franz, Chairman of the MAHLE Management Board and CEO, emphasised the significance of this project, stating, “We see hydrogen as a crucial building block for sustainable mobility, particularly in the commercial vehicle sector.”
“This collaboration with DEUTZ represents a milestone with a lighthouse effect, showcasing that there are technological alternatives beyond electrification to achieve climate neutrality.” He added. He also underscored the need for diverse technological options to keep the world moving, particularly for heavy machinery like excavators and combine harvesters.
On top of that, the successful pilot projects undertaken in the commercial vehicle sector highlight the potential of hydrogen engines, and with MAHLE as a partner, DEUTZ is well-positioned to enter series production of its hydrogen engines by late 2024. To adapt to hydrogen combustion, MAHLE has refined and enhanced the aluminium piston and piston ring pack traditionally used in diesel engines.
One of the key challenges in hydrogen combustion is optimising the gas mixture forced into the crankcase during the combustion process while managing oil consumption. MAHLE has already verified the reliability of its hydrogen components across various engine classes.
What’s more, Franz reiterated the importance of leveraging all available powertrain technologies to meet climate protection goals, stating that MAHLE is committed to technological diversity as part of its corporate strategy. Alongside e-mobility initiatives, including fuel cells and their thermal management, MAHLE recognizes the climate-neutral green combustion engine, which operates on non-fossil fuels like hydrogen, as essential for a sustainable powertrain mix.
In line with its commitment to hydrogen technology, MAHLE opened a new test centre dedicated to hydrogen applications in March 2021, covering 1,400 square metres at its Stuttgart facility. This centre will support ongoing innovations and testing as the industry moves toward more sustainable solutions.
