Professor Hua Zhao has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.
He joins other distinguished academics from renowned research institutions, and technologists from world-leading engineering companies.
Professor Zhao was honoured for his fundamental and applied research into novel engine combustion concepts, air hybrid engine/vehicle technologies and advanced laser diagnostics for the development of high efficiency and ultra-low emissions powertrains for the automotive industry.
Among his research successes, Prof Zhao’s air hybrid prototypes have been taking passengers around Yulin City in China, home to Yuchai which makes 80% of all the country’s bus engines, since 2011. The system can cut fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent per annum, saving seven tonnes of carbon, per bus each year.
During his time at Brunel, Professor Zhao has established the Centre for Advanced Powertrain and Fuels (CAPF), one of Europe’s most active research centres on internal combustion engines and their fuels. He is currently the Vice-Dean of Research in the College of Engineering, Design and Physical Sciences, having served previously as the Head of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Julia Buckingham, said: “This is one of the greatest accolades that can be awarded to an engineer. Professor Zhao's success clearly shows that Brunel can rightly boast of having academics at the leading edge of engineering research.”
The Royal Academy of Engineering brings together the most successful and talented engineers to advance and promote excellence in engineering. It is heavily involved in engineering education and research funding, and works to improve public awareness and understanding of engineering, with four key aims: Drive faster and more balanced economic growth; foster better education and skills; lead the profession and promote engineering at the heart of our society.