May 2009 saw the launch of the latest engine model designed and built by Tognum’s largest subsidiary MTU Friedrichshafen, which completes the MTU portfolio in the lower power output range. Series 1600 is an out-and-out off-highway engine specifically developed for these applications, and not primarily for commercial vehicles like many other of our engines in the lower output range. This engine family consists of a 6-cylinder in-line unit, as well as 8-, 10- and 12-cylinder V-engines.

In order to facilitate competitive manufacturing operations, Tognum currently relies almost entirely on suppliers who are – like many customers – predominantly from European countries. The other pillar on which the production of this new engine Series rests, is the modular design concept. As the demand for 270 to 730 kW units is highest in power generation applications, production of genset engines will commence in the fall of 2009. By 2016, 20,000 engines will be coming off the MTU production line every year, in all applications ranging from Construction & Industrial and Agriculture to Rail. MTU’s latest “baby engine” also sets standards in terms of environmental compatibility. Exhaust gas after-treatment systems are currently being tested on field-trial engines in order to be prepared for future, increasingly stringent emission regulations (Series 1600 already complies with EPA Tiers 2 and 3).