Bosch Aviation Technology Adapts Rotax 916 Engine for Hydrogen Operation in Vienna
Key Ideas
  • Bosch Aviation Technology in Vienna converted a Rotax 916 aircraft engine to run on hydrogen using existing components, demonstrating a feasible approach in just four months.
  • The modification work significantly optimized the hydrogen engine's performance, showing potential for reducing carbon emissions in general aviation.
  • The adaptation of the Rotax 916 engine could meet the increasing demand for environmentally friendly technology in the aviation sector, aligning with market trends.
  • Further developments are needed to enhance the power output of the hydrogen engine, with Bosch considering future prototypes to achieve operational viability.
Bosch Aviation Technology, a subsidiary based in Vienna, successfully converted a conventional Rotax 916 aircraft engine to operate on hydrogen in a feasibility study. The project, completed in about four months, utilized existing components from Bosch's volume-production developments. By modifying the established engine design rather than creating a new one, Bosch demonstrated a practical and cost-effective approach to hydrogen propulsion. The adaptation work enhanced the engine's performance, paving the way for potential carbon emission reductions in general aviation. Although the initial power output of the hydrogen engine was modest at 115Kw, Bosch aims to further develop the technology to ensure operational feasibility. The company envisions future aircraft concepts that incorporate climate-friendly hydrogen technology to address the increasing environmental concerns in the aviation industry. The Rotax 916 engine, commonly used in various light aircraft models, ultralights, and homebuilds, has now been successfully adapted for hydrogen use, showcasing Bosch's commitment to innovation and sustainability in aviation.
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