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In the thirteenth episode of season two of the IAA TRANSPORTATION PODCAST, we welcome Arnd Franz, CEO and Chairman of the Management Board of MAHLE.
Together, we discuss how one of the world's leading automotive suppliers is positioning itself in an environment shaped by technological change, geopolitical uncertainties, and growing competitive pressure—and which drive technologies will shape the commercial vehicle sector in the coming years.
Arnd Franz offers exciting insights into the MAHLE 2030+ strategy, through which the company is pursuing three core areas for the future: electrification, thermal management, and efficient, clean internal combustion engines. Central to this is the question of how to balance climate protection, technological diversity, and economic viability. Alongside battery-electric drives, MAHLE is also focusing on sustainable fuels and hydrogen as vital building blocks for decarbonizing transport.
A special focus is placed on two world premieres that MAHLE is presenting at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026. With a new range extender system for heavy-duty electric trucks, the company aims to increase the range of battery-electric trucks to over 800 kilometers while simultaneously reducing required battery capacity. This is intended to better decouple the ramp-up of e-mobility from the slower-paced expansion of charging infrastructure.
In addition, we talk about the new MCT electric motor for heavy commercial vehicles, which operates without permanent magnets and therefore avoids the need for heavy rare earth elements. Arnd Franz explains why this technology not only reduces reliance on critical supply chains, but also improves the weight, efficiency, and environmental footprint of the electric drive. Thermal management plays a crucial role here as well: from battery cooling and charging speeds to range and drivetrain lifespan, efficient temperature control is becoming a key factor in e-mobility.
Our conversation also covers international competition and how Europe can secure its industrial competitiveness
Sustainable fuels and hydrogen remain core topics as well. Arnd Franz explains why HVO100, Bio-LNG, and other alternative fuels should be given greater consideration, and why MAHLE sees both the hydrogen combustion engine and the fuel cell as essential technologies for the commercial vehicle sector.
Finally, we look ahead to IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026 in Hanover. Under the motto "Electrified, Efficient, Economical," MAHLE will showcase technologies designed to drive electrification, boost efficiency, and secure the economic viability of commercial vehicles.
The IAA TRANSPORTATION Podcast is a production of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA).
Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Audible and wherever else you get your podcasts.
