Mahle Powertrain has commenced testing on a breakthrough project aimed at integrating hydrogen fuel into existing heavy-duty truck engines. The initiative, known as Project Cavendish, is backed by a £9.8 million (Rs 100 crore) UK government grant through the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC). The project seeks to deliver rapid, scalable solutions for hydrogen combustion, utilizing current engine platforms and infrastructure to accelerate decarbonization in freight transport.Mahle Powertrain’s state-of-the-art testing facility in Northampton plays a crucial role, leveraging its expertise in alternative fuels like hydrogen and methanol.
“Hydrogen combustion engines (H2-ICE) are a game-changer for long-haul and heavy-duty applications that are difficult to electrify. This technology allows the industry to build on years of development and investment, fast-tracking the transition to net zero,” said Jonathan Hall, Head of Research and Advanced Engineering at Mahle Powertrain. “Our advanced facility, with its dedicated hydrogen supply, custom monitoring systems, and high-torque dynamometers, is perfectly suited for this phase of development.”
The project aligns with the EU’s stringent CO2 reduction targets under the “Fit for 55” package, requiring a 45% cut in emissions by 2030, 65% by 2035, and 90% by 2040. To support this transition, the UK government has pledged £8.3 billion (Rs 8,460 crore) toward hydrogen industry investments and up to £21.7 billion (Rs 221,188 crore) for carbon capture initiatives. Hydrogen-based solutions are expected to complement fuel cell electric vehicles, driving widespread adoption across road transport, rail, aviation, and maritime sectors.
Project Cavendish brings together leading industry players, including PHINIA, BorgWarner, Cambustion, Hartridge, and Mahle Powertrain, to develop next-generation fuel-injection and turbocharging technologies that will be ready for mass production in line with EU VII and US 27 emissions regulations. Mahle Powertrain’s recently upgraded Northampton site is equipped to handle continuous hydrogen supply with dual tube-trailer storage, enabling seamless operation. Enhanced engine dynamometers, boasting 900 kW / 4,000 Nm capacity, ensure rigorous testing for heavy-duty applications. The facility’s in-house control and safety systems further enhance efficiency and reliability.
With this initiative, Mahle Powertrain is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of hydrogen-powered commercial transport. Mahle Powertrain is a leading engineering service provider specializing in powertrain development, electrification, and advanced propulsion technologies.
As a subsidiary of the MAHLE Group, the company focuses on delivering innovative solutions for sustainable mobility, including hybrid and electric powertrains, battery systems, and thermal management. With state-of-the-art testing facilities and expertise in internal combustion engines, Mahle Powertrain supports global automotive manufacturers in optimizing efficiency, performance, and emissions reduction. Its commitment to research and development ensures the creation of cutting-edge solutions that drive the future of clean and efficient transportation.
