Interview with Anish Taneja, CEO Clean Air & Hydrogen Technologies bei Johnson Matthey

Portrait Anish Taneja
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Johnson Matthey (JM) is a world leader in sustainable technology solutions, transforming energy and reducing emissions, for a cleaner, brighter future.

We’re powered by over 200 years as a global leader in platinum group metals, including  catalyst systems across all fuel types in light-duty and heavy-duty vehicles, and emissions control solutions in adjacent sectors, such as  power systems, methane abatement and direct air capture.

Beyond mobility, we enable the decarbonisation of industries that power the world – chemicals, energy, marine, aviation, and manufacturing – through breakthrough technologies in sustainable fuels, low-carbon methanol and ammonia.

Interview
with Anish TanejaCEO Clean Air & Hydrogen Technologies bei Johnson Matthey

1. What key trends do you see currently shaping the development of your field?

It’s fair to say that the industry continues to grapple with some seismic issues, from geopolitical and consumer demand uncertainties to intense global competition and question marks over the pace of the transition. What’s more encouraging is that despite these challenges – or perhaps because of them - we’re seeing real innovation pushing ahead in mobility. It’s increasingly clear there will be no ‘one size fits all’ solution.

The rate of electrification is slower than originally anticipated, elevating the case for alternative powertrains, particularly hybrid applications and alternative fuel sources.

Throughout, harmful emissions that affect the health of millions of people still require removal from the atmosphere. That’s why JM continues to adapt its Clean Air offer to best serve the needs of the evolving auto-catalyst market, including high-performance fuel cell and hydrogen ICE technologies for light and heavy-duty customers.

2. How important is the IAA MOBILITY as a platform to drive forward innovative ideas and collaborations?

As an advisory board member of the Verband der Automobilindustrie (VDA) since 2019, I know IAA MOBILITY very well! JM is a valued supplier to leading OEMs and auto manufacturers, and this exhibition provides the platform to showcase our  product innovation and to make connections and partnerships with customers old and new.

So much so, our Clean Air leadership team and many of our commercial teams are all in attendance at the European High Tech Pavillion, Hall A1, C10.

3.What practical applications and collaborations do you expect to be highlighted at the IAA MOBILITY?

I never go to IAA MOBILITY with any expectations of what I will see or learn, or who I will meet. I think that is the best way to approach it, to see it as a blank canvas and to be open to exciting new technologies, innovations and partnerships.

4. What projects will you like to showcase at the IAA MOBILITY?

We are excited to showcase many of our leading products and solutions, including:

  • Emissions control solutions for automotive for all fuel types in light-duty, heavy-duty and off-road vehicles
  • Clean Air Solutions, enabling lower carbon intensity power generation and the reduction of greenhouse gases at source
  • Hydrogen technologies, delivering high-performance catalyst-coated membranes (CCMs) for fuel cell and electrolysers
  • Platinum Group Metal services with an integrated, full-service offering, including precious metals management, product and technical services, and recycling and refining services.

Most recently, we’ve announced the expansion in our world-class Heavy-Duty Vehicle testing capabilities, upgrading our facility in Gothenburg, Sweden. Alongside the site’s existing diesel engine test cells (both light and heavy duty), we have now invested in H2-ICE capabilities, scaling up its ability. It will be operational this autumn.

5. How can the IAA MOBILITY help make sustainable technologies and approaches accessible to a wider audience?

Coming together at IAA MOBILITY provides an opportunity for the many parties in the industry to join forces, build relationships, collaborate and innovate. The potential of that combined technical know-how is significant, partnering on and demonstrating future possibilities to policymakers. It is also a fantastic indication of ‘the art of the possible’ to consumers, as mobility continues to transform in the years ahead for the benefit of economies and society.

6. In what ways do you work with OEMs to accelerate the implementation of innovations in vehicles?

Since creating the first auto-catalyst over 50 years ago, we have continually innovated in partnership with OEMs to improve our emission controls technologies. We have solid, enduring relationships, built through transparency and mutual respect. These trusted relationships help drive forward innovation, where both parties know they are working with the very best in their field.

We develop and deliver next-generation catalyst systems, from low-NOx ICE solutions to hydrogen fuel cells at industrial scale, backed by decades of experience. Our global R&D and production footprint provides scale with local expertise:

  • Comprehensive specialism in platinum group metal chemistry, catalyst layering, and system integration
  • Active regulatory shaping, with solutions already aligned to Euro VII, EPA27, BSVII, LEV IV, and other emerging global standards, including patented solutions
  •  Global investment in advanced tech facilities including Poland, China, and India, enabling speed, scale and localization

Interviews at a glance