This year the “Professor Ferdinand Porsche Prize” goes to Luigi Ronco, Head of Research and Development at Italian motorcycle accessory manufacturer Dainese, and Federico Sabbioni, Head of Vehicle Project Management at Italian motorcycle brand Ducati. They received the award for the joint development of an innovative airbag system that effectively protects motorcyclists from injury in the event of an accident.
The prize worth €50,000 was officially handed over today by Professor Sabine Seidler, Rector of the Vienna University of Technology, Dr Wolfgang Porsche, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Porsche AG, and Dr Hans Michel Piëch, Member of the Supervisory Board of Porsche AG.
Pioneering research and development work in the field of automotive engineering
Acknowledging the prize-winners, Matthias Müller, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG, said “This innovative development greatly improves safety for motorcyclists. Every airbag system fitted protects life and limb. It is a sensible investment for every motorcyclist.” In his laudatory speech Professor Bernhard Geringer, Director of the Institute for Powertrains and Automotive Technology at the Vienna University of Technology, explained and praised the technology of the new airbag system from Dainese and Ducati.
The “Professor Ferdinand Porsche Prize” was awarded today for the 19th time. It is one of the most highly remunerated awards for pioneering research and development work in the field of automotive engineering. In 1977 the prize was endowed by Louise Piëch, daughter of Professor Ferdinand Porsche. It has been awarded every two years since 1981. Porsche Holding, Salzburg, and Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart each provide half of the prize money.