Thank You

Abstract

Dear Reader, Two years ago I set out on an adventure that involved new and unfamiliar tasks: shaping and developing the future of MTZ. My responsibilities were clearly defined. I was to push ahead with transforming the magazine for combustion engines into a publication covering powertrains of every kind, which included electric and electrified drives as well as conventional engines, and to ensure that it stayed on track. Now it is time for me to say thank you. It has taken a long time to raise awareness of the wide variety of current issues among developers, service providers and carmakers. But the articles over the last couple of years have shown that the new path taken by MTZ has not only been accepted but also brought to life by authors and readers alike. There is a strong sense of community among engine developers and enthusiasts, but the most recent developments relating to the electrification of the powertrain and importantly also of the fuel, which will be needed in order to achieve the European Union's emissions targets, have played an opinion-forming role and have gained a previously unseen political significance. This has repeatedly been made clear to us during discussions at our congresses and other events. We intend to consolidate this new dimension. Our interviews will be freed from the confines of the cover feature and will focus on the latest themes. We will go beyond the boundaries of purely technical reporting. We must not only promote technology neutrality, but also breathe life into it. Don't be surprised to find interviews on the subject of environmental policy in MTZ in the future. The importance of the themes we cover has been made clear during the peak of the coronavirus crisis. Hardly any of our authors have had to postpone the submission of their pieces. The magazine has arrived punctually with you in both print and digital form and our subscriber numbers have risen, particularly outside Germany. In the 81st year of the history of MTZ, we are very grateful for this. When the social distancing rules are finally lifted and live events can be held without restrictions, I look forward once again to meeting you in person. I hope you enjoy this issue of MTZ. Marc Ziegler Deputy Editor in Chief