Engine – with precision, partnership, and a pioneering spirit for a hydrogen future
Engine stayed on course for 2024, despite delays in future technologies. The Business Unit set technological standards with innovative hydrogen solutions such as the AdaptH₂ system and strengthened its competitiveness with strategic partnerships.
The Engine Business Unit successfully maintained the record level of the previous year in 2024, despite weaker momentum in the hydrogen market. With sales of 68.2 million euros, earnings were only slightly below the previous year’s figure and the targets. Profitability was also below the previous year’s level, as expected, due to restructuring expenses in the fuel cell segment. While the oil and gas market proved stable, the hydrogen segment was slowed down by a lack of infrastructure measures, particularly in Europe and North America. China, on the other hand, took the lead with promising developments in this market.
The existing business remained stable in all areas and consolidated the record level of 2023. The partial failure of IT systems in the summer of 2024 was also successfully overcome through targeted prioritization, minimizing the impact on customers. After just two months, the revenue shortfall was offset and the Business Unit was back on track for success.
“2024 was characterized by technological breakthroughs, strong partnerships, and persistent team spirit.”
Active promotion of the hydrogen market
Despite a market delay of two to three years in Europe and North America, Engine is sticking to its innovation strategy in the hydrogen sector. Particularly encouraging was the successful ramp-up phase of the ePCC-DI at a pilot customer, which attracted worldwide interest. In addition, the start of production of hydrogen refueling electronics set new market standards. In 2025, Engine will continue to provide decisive impetus, focusing specifically on the Chinese market to benefit from its significantly more dynamic development.
Milestones and technological breakthroughs
With its unique AdaptH₂ system, Engine ushered in a new era of hydrogen combustion in 2024. The system – which includes a prechamber spark plug, hydrogen ignition, and injectors – enables hydrogen engines to achieve performance comparable to diesel. Successful full-engine tests have confirmed the system’s efficiency and reinforced HOERBIGER’s position as a technological leader in hydrogen mobility.
Important partnerships, strong team spirit
This technological breakthrough was made possible in part by a strategic partnership with Prometheus, further enhancing Engine’s innovation and competitiveness. At the same time, company-wide enabling platforms have proven fundamental to success. In particular, the GrowtH and HOERBIGER Way initiatives have been key drivers of collaboration and team spirit. Despite challenges in the hydrogen market, the team demonstrated determination and commitment – clear evidence of the dynamic mindset and strong cohesion within the Business Unit.
Focus for 2025: growth and innovation
A major milestone in hydrogen mobility will be reached this year with the world’s first series production launch of a heavy-duty truck engine featuring HOERBIGER’s H₂ port fuel injectors (PFI). Meanwhile, a favorable market environment in the oil & gas segment signals a return to profitable growth. The strategic focus for 2025 and beyond is to consolidate market leadership in the gas ignitions segment and expand innovation leadership in the H₂ ICE segment through the AdaptH₂ system. With this ambitious roadmap, the Engine Business Unit remains committed to stability, innovation, and sustainable growth – reinforcing its pioneering role in the energy sector.