German automotive supplier reports progress on biofuel and biomaterial research as company pushes for global expansion of renewable fuel adoption
22 May 2025 | 864 Views | By Angitha Suresh
MAHLE's Global Biomobility Center in Brazil has completed its first year of operations, initiating eight development projects focused on biofuels and biomaterials. The center, located at the company's Tech Center in Jundiaí, São Paulo, was established to leverage South America's expertise in renewable fuels for global mobility applications.
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MAHLE's Global Biomobility Center in Brazil has completed its first year of operations, initiating eight development projects focused on biofuels and biomaterials. The center, located at the company's Tech Center in Jundiaí, São Paulo, was established to leverage South America's expertise in renewable fuels for global mobility applications.
The German automotive supplier launched the facility as part of its strategy to accelerate sustainable mobility solutions worldwide. During its inaugural year, the center developed partnerships with customers and research institutes while beginning knowledge transfer activities to North America and Asia.
Projects undertaken include development of cellulosic filter medium and activated carbon from biomass, creation of an Ethanol Power Cell Unit to improve flex-fuel engine efficiency, and assessment of advanced biodiesel impact on heavy-duty engine performance. The center also developed a multifuel medium-duty engine capable of running on biomethane and ethanol.
Half of the center's projects involve partnerships with Brazilian research institutes and receive funding from government programs including MOVER, Embrapii, and FAPEMIG. Additional collaborations include direct partnerships with original equipment manufacturers, automotive suppliers, and energy sector companies.
MAHLE CEO Arnd Franz stated that sustainable fuels require rapid global scaling to address climate change. The company advocates for increasing biofuel blending ratios globally to match levels achieved in Brazil and India, targeting more than 20 percent renewable fuel consumption by 2030 to meet emission reduction goals.
Brazil serves as a natural base for biofuel research due to its position as a global leader in biofuel production and deployment. The country has successfully implemented mandates, financial incentives, and sustainability requirements to expand biofuel supply, making it a model for other nations.
The center monitors global trends and government actions regarding biofuel adoption while working with governments and industry players in India, Thailand, Japan, and other countries. This aligns with MAHLE's broader strategy focusing on electrification, thermal management, and sustainable internal combustion engines powered by renewable fuels including hydrogen, synthetic fuels, and biofuels.
MAHLE, founded in 1920, is a German automotive parts manufacturer and one of the world's largest suppliers of engine components and systems. The company has been expanding its focus on sustainable mobility solutions as the automotive industry transitions toward decarbonization.