The persistent calls from large parts of the industry for technological openness have borne fruit: the eagerly awaited “Automotive Package” from the EU Commission is likely to open the door to a future for combustion engines in new vehicles – even beyond 2035. What consequences will this have for the drive mix of the future, and what role will sustainable fuels, known as e-fuels, play in this? These questions and other highly topical issues will be discussed by experts at the 13th International Engine Congress on February 24 and 25, 2026, in Baden-Baden. Decision-makers and experts in drive technologies as well as fuel specialists from all over the world are once again expected to attend this established event.
The international engine community values the Engine Congress as a platform for open, controversial, and forward-looking discussions about the mobility of tomorrow. The two-day event focuses on the technical potential of the combustion engine for emission-neutral mobility in both passenger cars and commercial vehicles, as well as on sustainable and future-proof fuels.
Insights into current trends and technologies
The program, which is already available online, once again promises up-to-date references to the latest legislative developments, in-depth technical insights into scientific research, and the development projects of automobile manufacturers and suppliers. All participants will come together in the plenary session to hear keynotes from leading figures in the industry. In addition, more than 30 specialist presentations are planned, which will be held in parallel sessions focusing on three key areas: passenger car engine technology, commercial vehicle engine technology, and sustainable fuels and energy.
Decarbonizing transport with e-fuels
In addition to engine technologies, there is a particular focus on sustainable fuels, which can make a significant contribution to the decarbonization of transport. The aim of the congress is to make targeted use of synergies with regard to fuels, their properties, and the resulting new approaches to drive development.
Focus areas of the Engine Congress
The International Engine Congress promotes close cooperation between passenger car and commercial vehicle engine developers and fuel experts. The main topics in 2026 will include:
- Global strategies for the drive mix of the future
- CO2-neutral combustion engines in international competition
- From racing to series production
- New drive systems and components for commercial vehicles
- Development, production, and regulation of sustainable fuels
- Potential in the circular economy
In addition, a high-profile panel discussion will address the topic of “The importance of the combustion engine for the economy and climate protection.”
Accompanying trade exhibition and NextGen program
The lecture and discussion program is rounded off by an accompanying trade exhibition providing information about innovative products and services. The NextGen program is aimed specifically at young professionals on their way to the next management level, offering further insights and new contacts. All participants in the International Engine Congress will find plenty of opportunities for networking during the breaks between presentations and at the popular Engine Community Evening.
Registration and program at https://www.vdiconference.com/engine-congress/ and via the VDI Wissensforum Customer Center, P.O. Box 10 11 39, 40002 Duesseldorf, e-mail: wissensforum@vdi.de, phone: +49 211 6214-201, fax: -154.
Press Accreditation
A visit to Baden-Baden is also worthwhile for journalists: accreditation is already possible at https://www.vdiconference.com/engine-congress/press/.