In 1982, AVL introduced a procedure that enabled real-time
insights into the combustion processes of diesel engines. In
1985, AVL commissioned a high-dynamic testbed, allowing
a real engine to be tested in a virtual vehicle for the very first
time. Testbeds of this type were developed for Italian carmak-
er Ferrari, for example.
In 1986, the first HSDI (High-Speed Direct Injection) diesel
engine developed by AVL went into large-scale global produc-
tion. This advanced engine was produced in large batches as
a propulsion system for light commercial vehicles, marking
a significant milestone in the development of diesel engine
technology.
The 1980s
1980
Foundation of AVL Italia S.r.l.
Headquartered in Turin, AVL Italia S.r.L. was founded in 1980
with the aim of introducing AVL testing and instrumentation to
the Italian market. In 2006, the subsidiary expanded its expertise
in the areas of mechanics, fluidics and end-of-line cold testing
systems. The area of end-of-line cold testing systems has been
operating as a separate legal entity since 2017. A state-of-the art
technology center opened in Cavriago in the same year, featuring
a high-voltage laboratory with a prototype battery assembly
area. This saw AVL establish a powerful presence in the Emilia
Romagna region, known as the “Motor Valley” of Italy.
1984
Foundation of AVL India Private Ltd.
AVL India Private Ltd. was established in 1984 and has pioneered
the provision of turnkey projects, encompassing testbed
systems, end-of-line tests, and quality control for all types of
mobility technology. The expansion of the technology center
allowed for the provision of customer-specific services for the
construction and development of propulsion systems for the
Indian market.
1987
Foundation of AVL List Nordiska AB
AVL List Nordiska AB has been headquartered in Stockholm since
its foundation in 1987. Scandinavia plays a significant global
role in the automotive industry. This geographical relevance is
reflected in the four AVL subsidiaries in Sweden.
The 1970s saw AVL initiate sales of its first fully automatic
testbeds. Fifty medical devices were distributed at the same
time. The importance of the technical support provided in
Graz grew, guaranteeing operational stability for customers
with as little downtime as possible. The aim was to analyze
complaints quickly, make any necessary improvements to the
devices, and then put these into production with top priority.
This was accompanied by the introduction of a younger
executive management board, with Helmut List assuming the
chair. He was also responsible for the Measurement Tech-
nology, Workshops (Production), and Sales areas at AVL. At
this time, Hans List retained the top management role at the
company. Further significant milestones were reached during
the decade, with the introduction of capsule technology for
acoustic insulation in engines and the initiation of develop-
ment of DI diesel engines for passenger vehicles in 1974. AVL
proudly presented the first prototype of a light diesel engine
(LD) in 1975.
1979 saw Helmut List finally assume overall control of AVL
from his father, having been actively involved in the company
since 1966. The handover took place from September 9th to
24th with notarial authentication. At this time, AVL had around
500 employees.
The 1970s
1972
Foundation of AVL United Kingdom Ltd.
AVL United Kingdom Ltd. was established in Hartlebury (UK) in
1972. The subsidiary company now has centers of excellence
in Coventry, Basildon, and Hartlebury. These can be used local-
ly, thanks to the access to the international expertise network
of the entire AVL Group.
1976
Foundation of AVL Deutschland GmbH
Founded in 1976, AVL Deutschland GmbH started out as
a pure sales company. Starting from the headquarters in
Mainz- Kastel, more than ten locations were established in
Germany, linked with the continuous expansion of the already
extensive portfolio in the areas of engineering, instrumentation,
test systems, and simulation.
75 YEARS AND BEYOND
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