Hydrogen Combustion

Hydrogen is a zero carbon fuel which has significant potential as an IC engine fuel for applications such as heavy duty, off-road and construction that our proving very difficult to electrify.

Key Attributes of H₂ IC Engines

• Utilises existing proven technology and engine hardware
• Easy integration into existing vehicle platforms
• Fast refuelling for high duty cycle applications
• Maintains ICE powertrain characteristics
• Lower H₂ purity requirement than fuel cells
• Potential for extremely low emissions

 H₂ IC Engine Requirements

• Mechanical
  1. Material changes for low lubricity & embrittlement
  2. Detailed PCU design for reduced blowby and oil consumption
  3. Positive crankcase purging
• Combustion System
  1. Measures to tackle abnormal combustion and maximise efficiency
  2. MAHLE Jet Ignition^® is an enabler for combustion stability
  3. Optimised for lean operation
  4. Very low engine out NOx achievable at steady state

Our Tools, Facilities and Services

• Dedicated hydrogen storage compound
• Vehicle test facility with hydrogen safety systems
• Engine test facility for hydrogen combustion development
• Predictive analysis of concept design (FEA, CFD, 1-D simulation)
• Detailed evaluation of emissions and fuel consumption
• State of the art in-house engine and vehicle test capabilities
• Dedicated safety measures for hydrogen handling
• Integration of prototype engines into demonstrator vehicles

 MAHLE Powertrain announces dedicated hydrogen facility