11th International Engine Congress 2024

Not only battery-electric but also thermodynamic powertrains are imperative for the implementation of the mobility turnaround and the global reduction of CO₂ emissions. Largely hybridised and powered by hydrogen and synthetic fuels from renewable sources, they make an important contribution both to the huge global fleet of over 1.3 billion vehicles and to new vehicles. The powertrains of new vehicle generations will also have to rely on this proven technology for decades to come in order to be able to meet the steadily increasing global mobility needs in a climate-friendly way. The International Engine Congress as a knowledge forum and industry meeting place for engine development addresses the entire system of engine technology: from energy generation to energy storage to energy conversion. With its unique concept, it brings together the current technological state of knowledge of the entire system of non-fossil fuels and internal combustion engines and their holistic evaluation with regard to climate protection. It is thus the central, practice-oriented platform for the exchange of knowledge and suitable systemic strategies for meeting the Paris and Glasgow climate targets.

The political target in Europe is to ban vehicles powered by internal combustion engines from 2035 in order to achieve zero emissions in the transportation sector stage by stage via the “Fit for 55” package of measures. What remains unresolved in the ongoing debate is the necessary discussion between the political, scientific, and social stakeholders on the integration of electrofuels and therefore on a sector-linked assessment in the final legislation.