We are proud to announce that Heart Combustion Engine S.r.l., headquartered in Rome, has been officially selected as one of the 16 semifinalists in the 17th Global Automotive & Mobility Innovation Challenge (GAMIC). The semifinal event will take place on February 19, 2025, at the University of Michigan–Dearborn, with hybrid participation available.
A Highly Competitive Selection Process
Out of more than 1,200 applicants worldwide, only 16 startups were selected from 10 countries e 3 U.S. states, following multiple rounds of virtual pitch competitions held between December 2024 and January 2025.
Heart Combustion Engine is proud to represent Italy among the global innovators selected, alongside teams from the U.S., Canada, Germany, Israel, Hungary, Spain, Luxembourg, Northern Ireland, and beyond.
Save the Date: Semifinals on February 19, 2025
The GAMIC semifinals will take place both in-person at the University of Michigan–Dearborn and virtually via Zoom, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST.
The day will feature startup pitches, keynote speakers, expert panels, and high-impact networking with OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, investors, and industry leaders.
Why This Is a Milestone for HCE
- Global visibility: GAMIC gives HCE a high-profile international stage to showcase our patented innovation.
- Mentorship: The program includes four weeks of preparation with over 40 experienced industry mentors.
- Strategic exposure: The event opens doors to potential collaborations with major players in mobility and clean tech.
- A step toward the finals: Eight startups will advance to the finals held in April 2025 at the SAE World Congress in Detroit, competing for in-kind services and cash prizes.
What Makes Heart Combustion Engine Stand Out
Heart Combustion Engine introduces a patented internal combustion engine that completes a full real Atkinson cycle in just one crankshaft revolution. Thanks to a unique mechanism that allows real-time modulation of each phase of the cycle, HCE delivers:
- Up to 2x the power density of a conventional engine
- Lower fuel consumption e reduced emissions
- Full compatibility with idrogeno,, biocarburanti, and conventional fuels
This solution offers a new path to sustainable, efficient, and high-performance powertrains—without abandoning the combustion engine.
What’s Next?
- Now: Preparing with GAMIC mentors to sharpen our pitch and business strategy
- February 19, 2025: Presenting live at the semifinals
- April 7, 2025: Potential finals in Detroit, during the SAE WCX event
A heartfelt thank you to the entire HCE team and community. Being selected as a GAMIC semifinalist shows that Italian innovation in powertrain technology can compete on the world stage.
Follow our journey as we bring the Heart of the future into motion.
📌 Useful links:
Stay tuned — we’re just getting started.
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