From Automotive to Forensic Science: AUREL gains recognition abroad and across industries

In May and June, AUREL showcased its innovative technologies at three prestigious international events – well-known automotive trade fairs in Germany and the USA, as well as forensic science conference in Ireland. The outcome is new partnerships and confirmation that there is a strong interest in AUREL’s technologies not only abroad, but also beyond the automotive sector. The details were shared by Robert Stoff-Riegel, Business Development Manager at AUREL’s German branch in Wolfsburg, who represented the company at the events. 

Could you start by introducing your role at AUREL Germany and share how you enjoy working here? 

As a Business Development Manager, I am responsible for acquiring new customers in Germany and across Europe. I work closely with the engineering, testing, and project management Teams. And I truly enjoy the work here. The team is open and friendly, I felt like at home from day one. It’s a professional environment that goes hand in hand with a collaborative atmosphere. Thanks to a steady stream of projects, there’s always something to work on, even during quieter periods. 

May I ask if you notice any difference between the working environment in Germany and in the Czech Republic? 

Yes, definitely. In Germany, the work culture tends to be more structured and formal. People stick closely to plans and deadlines. In the Czech Republic, the environment is more flexible, less hierarchical, and decisions are made faster and more collaboratively. Communication in German companies are usually more direct and to the point, while in Czech companies, it’s often more considerate and diplomatic. While Germans tend to separate work and personal life more strictly, it’s more common in the Czech Republic to have lunch together or meet up after work. 

And how do the German and Czech automotive industries differ?

The German automotive sector is one of the most advanced and influential in the world. It remains a technological leader, particularly in the areas of electromobility and autonomous driving. The Czech market is smaller but highly agile, more focused on production, and open to new technologies. Germany emphasises robust engineering and process quality, while the Czech Republic shows more entrepreneurial spirit. These two markets complement each other well and create space for innovation and efficient collaboration. 

In May, you visited the well-known Automotive Testing Expo in Stuttgart, where you presented AUREL’s services in quality testing at the proving ground. How important was that for AUREL?

It was crucial for us. Key industry players gathered in one place. We had the opportunity to showcase AUREL Proving Ground to a broad international audience. It helped position AUREL as a flexible, innovation-oriented partner for the mobility challenges of the future, For us, it wasn’t just a presentation, it was a moment to demonstrate who we are and where we are heading.

Were you able to establish new partnerships?

Yes, definitely. Our booth attracted a lot of attention. We established several new partnerships and received strong interest in promising projects. Companies are actively looking for strong and reliable partners for development and testing, and AUREL fits that role. The feedback from visitors were very positive. Many were surprised by the breadth of our services, especially in development, testing, and validation.

Visitors had the chance to try out the AUREL Proving Ground simulator. Were they interested in it? 

The simulator is a digital twin of the physical proving ground. And it was a real magnet and a huge success. Visitors could ‘drive’ through it and see how we combine physical testing with development processes. On top of that, we organised a race where they ‘drove’ cars from their own brands. All the major OEMs were there, and it was amazing to watch how engaged everyone was. It sparked great interest. Thanks to that, we established more personal connections and left a strong impression. 

Which technological innovations impressed you the most? 

Definitely the field of autonomous driving. It’s fascinating how quickly it’s evolving. I believe that as vehicles become smarter, their architecture will simplify, costs will drop, and safety will improve. This will shift the focus of OEMs – from powertrain performance and safety to comfort, digital services, and user experience. It’s a major challenge for the automotive industry, but also very exciting. Seeing how fast this area is progressing made me realise that at AUREL, we are moving in the right direction by staying innovative and adaptable. 

In June, you represented AUREL at the Valve World Americas Expo in Houston. You presented the TorqGuardPro sensor for direct torque measurement. What makes it an innovative product?

Yes, we attended with my colleague Miroslav Pažout from our Czech office. TorqGuardPro is proof that AUREL isn’t afraid to go beyond traditional automotive boundaries. It enables real-time direct torque measurement with high precision, even under tough conditions. What makes it unique is how easily it integrates while still delivering accurate results. It addresses a very specific problem – and that’s what we enjoy, developing smart solutions tailored to customer needs.

Which regions showed the most interest? 

We presented the product to dozens of companies, and the highest level of interest came from North and South America. These regions have strong industrial representation, and the sensor precisely meets the need to keep valves in optimal condition. Some Asian companies also expressed first interest, but for now, we see the greatest potential in America. 

Was it worth traveling all the was ‘across the pond’ to present the new product? 

Absolutely, the effort was well worth it. We gained international attention and demonstrated that AUREL is an innovative partner beyond just the automotive sector. The feedback and new contacts are extremely valuable for us. We are returning with several highly promising opportunities. We have made new connections, started discussions about possible development, and even initiated talks about pilot projects. We spoke with companies that we otherwise wouldn’t have reached – especially outside Europe.

At the end of May, you attended the European Academy of Forensic Science Conference in Dublin, Ireland. There, you presented ForeScan 3D – a technology for detailed 3D scanning of the human body and objects. What makes it unique? 

ForeScan 3D is another great example of how we can successfully transfer know-how from one field to another. This non-invasive technology delivers highly precise and detailed scans of bodies and objects, which is crucial for forensic purposes. It enables evidence preservation with high credibility, even in cases where traditional autopsies aren’t possible.

Forensic science is quite distant from the automotive sector. Why did you decide to introduce this technology in that field? 

That’s exactly why we are so proud of this project. It all began with a request from a forensic pathologist who saw the potential in our technology. For us, it was a natural extension – we have strong know-how in precision technologies, and it makes perfect sense to apply it beyond automotive. It’s great demonstration of how innovation can cross industry boundaries when you are open to new ideas and committed to solving real problems. 

Was this event beneficial for AUREL? Did you make new contacts? 

Absolutely, the feedback was excellent. We made contacts with several experts and institutions in the field of forensic and security technologies across Europe. There is clearly strong demand for precise and efficient digital tools – and ForeScan3D fits this need perfectly. We demonstrated that AUREL is strong partner not only in automotive but in other sectors as well. This presentation opened doors to new projects and confirmed that innovation knows no boundaries. 

Does AUREL participate in other events outside the automotive industry? Ans do you see a future in that? 

Yes, more and more often. Products like ForeScan3D and TorqGuardPro are proof that it’s worthwhile to develop our technologies in other sectors too. When you have strong internal know-how – whether in sensor development, 3D scanning, or simulations – you realise it’s highly transferable to other industries. And AUREL definitely has what it takes. So yes, we absolutely see potential for expansion into new fields. And we openly invite any company to reach out to us, no matter how complex their challenge may be. We always do everything we can to solve it. As I like to say: ‘Challenge accepted’. 

Excellent, thank you for the interview, and we wish you many more successful challenges.