The academic content of the Automotive lectures consists of the following main topics:

• Current trends in automotive engineering (Prof. D. Schramm)
  

  
  

• Modeling of vehicle dynamics (Prof. D. Schramm)
  -Lateral and longitudinal vehicle dynamics, automotive systems, and components
  

  
  

• Materials and processes for light body structures (Prof. A. Fischer)
  -Space frame, ULSAB, light-metal alloys, high-strength steels, composites, Laser cutting, laser welding, hot-pressing, bonding
  

  
  

• Materials and processes for wear-resistant engine tribosystems (Prof. A. Fischer)
  -Light-metal castings, grey cast iron castings, metal spraying, laser surface structuring, micro- and nanocrystalline coatings
  

  
  

• Processes in internal combustion engines (Prof. C. Schulz)
  -Combustion fundamentals and strategies in IC engines: Diesel, spark ignition, HCCI, Optimization, future trends including in-cylinder laser-based diagnostics
  

  
  

• Lab visit (Prof. C. Schulz)
  -Engine test bench in operation, laser-based visualization of concentrations and temperature
  

  
  

• Energy supply for future generations (Prof. A. Heinzel)
  -Fuel-cell technology and systems with focus on Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEFC), Hydrogen generation, storage and transport, options for fossil and for renewable sources
  

  
  

• Active safety and driver assistance systems (Prof. D. Schramm)
  -ABS/ESP, lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance, etc.

Further topics will be added in the course depending on student interest and industry involvement.