Achievments of Wankel
In 1957 Wankel created “ Wankel Gmbh”, with his partner Ernst Hutzenlaub. He later sold the company for $26. Million dollars, he then established a research institute named TES in Lindaw / Bondensee. Daimler-Benz supported TES until 1993.
Dr. Felix Wankel came from a poor family background where he was born in the black forests in Swabia, Germany. He graduated from his High School at the age of 19. Due to his poorness he had to work instead of pursuing a college education. He had a dream, and on his own personal time and dedication he continued to pursue his idea of a rotary combustion engine. Through all the hardships, being put in jail, his research being destroyed by the French army, he still continued his pursuit. He was awarded an honorary Doctorate degree from Tecnische Univeritat Munchen on December 5,1969. He continued to receive awards from different countries. The federation of German Engineers Gold Medal was awarded to him in 1969, which is one of Germany’s highest civilian honors. In 1970 he received the Grand Federal Service Cross, 1971 he received the Franklin Medal of Philadelphia, the Bavarian Service Medal in 1973 and the “honour citizen” of Lahr in 1981 and finally the title of professor in 1987. Dr. Felix Wankel passed away on October 9,1988 in Lindau, Germany after a long illness.
