MAHLE on the Future of Mobility: Technology Diversity, Global Markets, and the Success Factors of Tomorrow

September 29, 2026
IAA Transportation 2026

MAHLE GmbH

Mr. Arnd Franz, CEO of MAHLE

About This Interview

With a broad technology portfolio ranging from electric drive systems and thermal management to range extenders, as well as solutions for hydrogen and renewable fuels, MAHLE is pursuing a technology-neutral approach to the decarbonization of mobility.

At IAA Transportation in Hanover, MarkLines spoke with Arnd Franz, CEO of MAHLE, about the progress of the magnet- and rare-earth-free MCT electric motor, the strategic importance of renewable fuels, global market requirements, and the challenges and opportunities for suppliers in an increasingly fragmented mobility market.

About This Interview
Q1
Mr. Franz, MAHLE is presenting its magnet- and rare-earth-free MCT electric motor at IAA Transportation. What progress have you made in recent years in terms of efficiency, packaging, and raw-material independence, and what significance does this technology have for future passenger car and commercial vehicle applications?
Q2
MAHLE has been operating a Global Biomobility Center in Brazil since 2023 and is demonstrating at IAA Transportation that its new range extender for battery electric trucks can also run on renewable fuels such as HVO100. What role do biofuels and other alternative energy sources play in MAHLE’s global decarbonization strategy, and why does MAHLE consider a technology-neutral approach to be essential?
Q3
Under the theme "Electrified. Efficient. Economical.", MAHLE is presenting an exceptionally broad portfolio at IAA, ranging from electric motors and thermal management to range extenders, hydrogen technologies, and renewable-fuel solutions. Many companies choose to prioritize specific technologies. Why does MAHLE continue to pursue a technology-neutral approach, and where does MAHLE see the strategic value it creates for customers?
Q4
Mr. Franz, the automotive and commercial vehicle industries are undergoing profound transformation. New technologies, changing customer requirements, and regional market differences are shaping the industry's development. What will be most critical for a global supplier such as MAHLE over the next ten years to remain successful in the long term? And how will the success of a company such as MAHLE be measured in the future?
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