Season’s Greetings and Happy New Year!

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Dear Visitors, Students, Partners, and Colleagues,

2024 has been a year of remarkable achievements for our department. Through our research breakthroughs, participation in international and domestic professional events, and fruitful industrial collaborations, we have continued to strengthen our role in shaping the future of mobility.

As we look ahead to 2025, we are excited about the challenges and opportunities it brings. We hope to forge new partnerships and bring innovative solutions to life together.

We sincerely thank you for your support, collaboration, and inspiration throughout this year.

Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

Automotive Innovations Up Close: QFD Group Visits the Department of Automotive Technologies at BME

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On December 11, the leaders and staff of QFD Group visited the Department of Automotive Technologies at Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) to gain firsthand insights into the institution’s research activities. As a regional licensing partner of VDA QMC, QFD Group provides quality management training, system development consultancy, and operational support for the automotive and other industries. The consultancy is committed to supporting innovation efforts within the industry.

During the visit, participants attended laboratory demonstrations and technical presentations that offered a closer look at the latest research directions in autonomous vehicles, environmental perception, hydrogen technology, and 3D metal printing. The event was a continuation of the QFD Automotive Supplier Conference held in October, where the department had already showcased its key research projects. Inspired by the positive experiences gained at the conference, QFD’s leadership decided to take part in an on-site program.

The visit allowed guests to see how the department is shaping the future of automotive technologies. Topics such as environmental sensing systems for autonomous transportation, new industrial applications of 3D metal printing, and the sustainability potential of hydrogen cells sparked numerous questions among the attendees.

In addition to enriching the visitors with professional knowledge, the event strengthened the relationship between the department and QFD Group. The Department of Automotive Technologies at BME is dedicated to close collaboration with industry partners to jointly shape the future of automotive innovation. This visit marks another step in that direction, paving the way for future joint projects.

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The research related to demonstration presented was funded by the European Union under the National Laboratory for Autonomous Systems (RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00002)

Dr. habil. Barna Hanula Receives the Botka Imre Award

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The Botka Imre Award, established by the Mechanical Division of the Hungarian Chamber of Engineers, was awarded in 2024 to Dr. habil. Barna Hanula, a certified mechanical engineer and internationally renowned expert in engine development. The prestigious award ceremony took place on December 5, 2024, at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME), in the K Building.

A Career Rooted in BME – and a Return

Dr. Barna Hanula’s career is closely tied to BME. He graduated from the Faculty of Transportation Engineering in 1983 and began his professional journey as a departmental engineer and assistant lecturer at the predecessor of today’s Department of Automotive Technologies. During this time, he mentored numerous future industry leaders, including Prof. Dr. László Palkovics, Hungary’s Minister for Innovation and Technology, and Zoltán Les, a board member at Audi Hungaria.

In addition to his teaching roles, Dr. Hanula made significant contributions to motorsport as one of Hungary’s most successful engine developers of the era. His achievements quickly gained international recognition, and in 1989 he moved to Germany, where he held leading positions at Dr. Schrick GmbH and later AVL-Schrick GmbH.

Engineering Achievements That Made History

Dr. Barna Hanula has been instrumental in several automotive milestones:

  • Development of Ford’s 4.0 V6 engine, produced in annual volumes of 700,000 units.
  • Creation of the Ford Rocam engine family, reaching millions of units in Brazil and Europe.
  • Contributions to the development of the iconic 16-cylinder, 1,000-horsepower Bugatti Veyron engine.

Additionally, he played a pivotal role in designing ultralight diesel engines for the Bundeswehr and advancing electric and hybrid drivetrains.

Bridging Education and Industry

Throughout his career, Dr. Hanula has placed a strong emphasis on education. Alongside his work in Germany, he regularly gave lectures at BME and other universities. Today, he remains an active contributor to the Department of Automotive Technologies, participating in curriculum development and further enhancing its educational offerings.

Recognition and Inspiration

The Botka Imre Award is a fitting recognition of a career that has enriched both industrial innovation and education. Dr. habil. Barna Hanula serves as an exemplary figure of engineering excellence and the societal role of the engineering profession.

The receipt of this award highlights not only an extraordinary professional journey but also BME’s influential role as a hub of scientific and engineering excellence.

Dr. Barna Hanula’s career exemplifies the close relationship between technological innovation, education, and industry—a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of engineers for decades to come.