MAHLE showcased a complete system for a fuel cell truck with fuel cell peripherals, thermal management and a fully functional heavy-duty electric axle at IAA Transportation 2024. The technology group developed components and systems for battery-electric and fuel cell vehicles and is making the internal combustion engine fit for the use of hydrogen and other renewable fuels.
Arnd Franz, Chairman of the MAHLE Management Board and CEO said, “We are committed to shaping a sustainable transportation sector with a view to strengthening the foundations for economic growth.” The company elaborated that successful climate protection relies on the transportation sector, as road transport volumes are aimed to increase by over 40% by 2030, making commercial vehicles essential for achieving carbon-neutral mobility.
Franz emphasized that the growing electrification of the transportation sector offered considerable potential for the company. He said that the volume of MAHLE components per vehicle was twice as high in the case of battery-electric trucks as with conventional internal combustion engine trucks and would be doubled once again in the case of fuel cell trucks. The sustainable commercial vehicle sector is a significant business area for MAHLE. The group’s customers currently include more than 120 international commercial vehicle brands in the on-highway and off-highway segments. The commercial vehicle sector accounts for about one-fifth of MAHLE’s OEM business and the share is growing.
MAHLE diversifying product range
Other product innovations included a high-performance evaporative cooling system that saves fuel for demanding fuel cell and electric vehicles, along with a bionic fan that reduces sound pressure levels by half, making electric trucks much quieter during full load or rapid charging. All current electrified trucks incorporate substantial amounts of MAHLE products, and the company is actively engaged in all major development projects for fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen engines underway.
Factors such as use cases, the distances traveled, payloads and the infrastructure available differ considerably throughout the various regions of the world.
The Chairman added, “We are committed to technological diversity with a view to decarbonizing the transportation sector, with its wide range of requirements, as rapidly as possible. MAHLE offers the technologies needed. Our products are developed, tested and ready for volume production.”
IAA Transportation is being held in Hanover from September 17 to 22. The MAHLE stand is in Hall 12
