Mahle, a tier 1 supplier based in Germany, announced that they had received a series order from engine manufacturer Deutz. The order entails the development and supply of components for hydrogen engines. Deutz plans to utilise these components, known as power cell units, which consist of the piston, piston ring pack, and piston pin, in stationary hydrogen engines by the end of 2024. Additionally, they have plans to explore further applications of these components in the off-highway sector, including agricultural and construction machinery.

The newly developed engines have the advantage of being able to operate in a climate-neutral manner by utilising hydrogen produced from renewable sources. This is due to the absence of CO2 emissions during the combustion of hydrogen. Mahle has dedicated years to the research and development of engine systems that can utilise hydrogen and other climate-neutral fuels.

Arnd Franz, Chairman of the MAHLE Management Board and CEO, expressed their belief in hydrogen as an important element for sustainable mobility, particularly in the commercial vehicle sector. Franz considered the project with Deutz to be a significant milestone with a positive impact since it demonstrates that there are alternative technological solutions, apart from electrification, to achieve climate-neutrality.

Dr Sebastian C Schulte, Chairman of the Management Board of Deutz, emphasised the need for different technology options to keep the world moving. While it remains uncertain how a climate-neutral excavator or combine harvester will look, Schulte acknowledged that multiple options are available for engines that operate continuously and handle heavy loads. The hydrogen engine is one such option. Successful pilot projects in the commercial vehicle sector have shown the potential of hydrogen engines. Through their partnership with Mahle, Deutz aims to begin series production of their hydrogen engines by the end of 2024.

Mahle has adapted and further improved the aluminum piston and piston ring pack from conventional diesel technology for use in the hydrogen engine. The challenge in hydrogen combustion lies in finding the optimal balance between the gas mixture forced into the crankcase during the combustion process and oil consumption. Mahle has already confirmed the reliability of the hydrogen components across various engine classes.

Franz stressed the importance of harnessing the potential of all available powertrain technologies to achieve climate protection goals.

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