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.

A Glimpse into the Future: Autonomous Cars Captivate Students in Kismaros

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On November 22, the scenic town of Kismaros in the Börzsöny Hills became the backdrop for an inspiring event where the students of ELTE Radnóti Miklós High School’s physics faculty delved into the world of autonomous vehicles. The star guest of the day was Dr. Zsolt Szalay, head of the Department of Automotive Technologies at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME), who delivered a captivating lecture titled “The Present and Future of Autonomous Driving – Where is Mobility Heading?” For the 17-19-year-old students, it was more than just a talk—it was a journey into the technology of tomorrow.

Today’s Curious Minds, Tomorrow’s Engineers

The students, standing at the crossroads of career choices, were introduced to the exciting challenges and limitless opportunities of the world of innovation. Dr. Szalay not only highlighted the cutting-edge research conducted at his department but also unraveled the secrets of autonomous vehicles, sparking curiosity and enthusiasm among the audience.

Five Levels Transforming the World

One of the most fascinating parts of the presentation was the explanation of the five levels of autonomous driving. Where did it all begin, and where are we heading? With vivid examples and engaging visuals, Dr. Szalay illustrated the journey from basic driver assistance systems to full autonomy.

“Technology not only enhances comfort and efficiency but fundamentally redefines our concept of mobility,” he emphasized, leaving the students captivated by the possibilities of human-machine collaboration in the future.

Test Tracks and Digital Twins

The audience was also introduced to the groundbreaking research conducted at the ZalaZONE Proving Ground. How can real and virtual testing environments be combined? Why are digital twins so crucial? These questions highlighted not only the precision of engineering but also the importance of safety in the future of transportation.

Could This Be Your Path?

One of the lecture’s most powerful messages was the boundless potential in the worlds of science and technology. Dr. Szalay encouraged the students: “Be the engineers of the future!” Perhaps, for some of the young attendees, this day served as the spark that ignited their passion for innovation and set them on a lifelong career path.

More Than Just a Lecture

The students weren’t just passive listeners; they engaged actively, asking questions like: Why does it take so long to introduce autonomous technologies? How are vehicles tested? What skills are essential to becoming an engineer? These interactive discussions showcased the students’ enthusiasm and curiosity—the perfect foundation for building the future of innovation.

An Inspiring Event

Dr. Zsolt Szalay’s lecture not only motivated the students but also provided a platform to showcase the activities of the BME Department of Automotive Technologies. The event was both educational and inspiring, strengthening the collaboration between the high school and the university.

The future of mobility might still seem like a distant dream, but events like this prove that the greatest journeys begin with a single step. At the camp in Kismaros, that step was taken—perhaps in the life of a future engineer.

Former Student Inspires Future Innovators: Szilárd Hunor Tóth Returns to Bolyai High School

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Szilárd Hunor Tóth, a PhD candidate at the Department of Automotive Technologies, Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME), recently revisited his alma mater, Bolyai János High School in Salgótarján, to inspire the next generation of students. On November 13, as part of the University Research Scholarship Program (EKÖP), Szilárd gave a career orientation and science promotion lecture to high school students, encouraging them to pursue ambitious academic and research goals.

His presentation, titled “AI Applications for Autonomous Vehicle Control”, offered an engaging glimpse into the fascinating field of autonomous vehicles. Szilárd’s research focuses on Reinforcement Learning for Autonomous Vehicle Control, a cutting-edge topic with exciting potential for the future of mobility.

Key Topics Covered in the Lecture:

  • What are autonomous vehicles?
  • Levels of vehicle autonomy and how they operate – how do self-driving cars make decisions?
  • Benefits of autonomous vehicles – enhancing safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
  • Drifting and reinforcement learning – why is it important for a car to “teach itself” how to drift?
  • Where to study if you want to develop autonomous cars?

Szilárd aimed to motivate the students to dream big and to consider research as a viable and exciting career path. “The university provides a strong foundation, and the door to research is open to anyone with the passion to pursue it,” he emphasized.

As an alumnus of Bolyai High School, Szilárd also used his own journey to show students what is possible. From graduating high school to becoming an active member of BME’s research community, he offered a relatable example of how the seeds of a successful research career can be planted early.

The students showed great interest during and after the lecture, asking insightful questions about the challenges and opportunities in the field. Szilárd highlighted the importance of not only technical skills but also creativity and teamwork in developing autonomous vehicles, making it a highly diverse and rewarding area of study and work.

A Role Model for Aspiring Innovators

Visits like this are invaluable, not only for promoting science but also for strengthening the bond between schools and their alumni. Szilárd Hunor Tóth’s lecture will undoubtedly inspire many talented students to pursue ambitious goals, perhaps even exploring the world of research and innovation.

The Department of Automotive Technologies at BME remains committed to sharing the knowledge and achievements of its researchers and students, inspiring the next generation to dream and achieve great things.

ThyssenKrupp Presta AG: An Inspiring Guest Lecture on Alternative Steering Functions

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The Department of Automotive Technologies was delighted to welcome Leonárd Lapis, representing ThyssenKrupp Presta AG, for a lecture on Alternative Steering Functions. The event was part of the Automated Driving Systems AVCE program, enriching our students’ knowledge of modern alternative steering solutions.

Leonárd traveled from Liechtenstein and shared his expertise with our students and faculty for the second time. His lecture provided insights into the future of automotive innovations and demonstrated the technological advancements shaping the next generation of steering systems.

Leonárd’s supervisor, Dr. Kristof Polmans, Senior Vice President of ThyssenKrupp Steering, has also been a guest speaker at our department, further strengthening the collaboration between our university and ThyssenKrupp.

We would also like to extend our gratitude to Ádám Bárdos, Head of the Vehicle Dynamics and Control Research Group, whose outstanding efforts were instrumental in organizing this event. Such collaborations are crucial in bridging the gap between industrial innovation and academic education.

Events like these are of great importance as they allow students to complement their theoretical knowledge with practical insights. We are grateful to Leonárd for dedicating his time and enriching the academic life of our department!

Bridging the “Valley of Death”: Dr. Zsolt Szalay on the Role of the State in Driving Innovation

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In a recent article on Index.hu, Dr. Zsolt Szalay, Head of the Department of Automotive Technologies at BME, shared insights on the importance of bridging the “Valley of Death” to support the success of startups. This figurative gap represents the funding challenges young, innovative companies face. Dr. Szalay emphasized the state’s role in establishing financial instruments like convertible loans and in supporting mentor programs to guide budding entrepreneurs through market hurdles.

Drawing on his extensive academic and industrial experience, Dr. Szalay highlighted that venture capital should contribute not just funding but also valuable connections and professional guidance. He cited the role of universities in connecting research outcomes with market needs, referencing the MIT model, which emphasizes close collaboration between academia, capital, and industry.

While the state must play a foundational role in regulating and supporting the innovation ecosystem, Dr. Szalay believes that sustainable growth lies in market-driven solutions. Universities can help validate and showcase promising prototypes, but venture capital’s task is to invest in projects with demonstrable potential. Ensuring that start-ups have access to professional guidance and capital at critical stages is essential for transforming innovative ideas into market-ready solutions.

Vehicle Safety and Security Research Group Showcases Innovative Test Framework at Cognitive Mobility 2024 Conference

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The Vehicle Safety and Security Research Group from the Department of Automotive Technologies at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics recently participated in the Cognitive Mobility 2024 Conference, held at the Bosch Budapest Innovation Campus. The team presented their newly developed test framework, which highlights a breakthrough approach to safe driving operations.

During the presentation, the research group demonstrated how, in situations where conventional environmental sensors fail to provide the necessary information for safe driving, radio communication technologies can offer a reliable alternative. They showcased a scenario where even with degraded radio communication quality, their innovative control concept enabled the system to maintain safe driving operations by adapting to the communication parameters.

This test framework represents a significant advancement in vehicle safety technology, illustrating the potential of radio communication as a complementary solution to traditional sensors. The group’s work not only addresses current challenges in autonomous driving but also opens new possibilities for the development of more resilient and adaptable vehicle safety systems.

The Department of Automotive Technologies is proud of the team’s achievements and their ongoing contribution to the advancement of intelligent mobility solutions.