Rudolf-Diesel-Straße will become Hans-Engelmann-Straße

A piece of the company’s history is now visible in the streetscape of Wiesloch-Baiertal. The section of road surrounding the Engelmann site will henceforth be named Hans-Engelmann-Straße, commemorating Engelmann’s founder. In early 2025, we approached the Baiertal local council and proposed renaming the section of Rudolf-Diesel-Straße—which was and is largely occupied by Engelmann anyway—to Hans-Engelmann-Straße. Of course, such a renaming must be based on sound reasons. And there are good reasons.

Street names—especially in industrial parks—can enhance a city’s image as a business hub when they are named after inventors or entrepreneurs. Hans Engelmann was one such entrepreneur. To this day, his company has become an economic heavyweight of great significance to Wiesloch-Baiertal. He shaped Baiertal like hardly any other entrepreneur. What Hans Engelmann developed—heat meters—is also of great significance. They are essential for a climate-positive future. In this respect, it was only natural that the name Hans Engelmann should stand for climate protection and climate positivity—another reason for the renaming. Furthermore, Engelmann is one of the “hidden champions” of its industry—a company so significant that the entire city and region should be familiar with its name.

By renaming the street, the city is honoring a figure who shaped Baiertal and the company’s location for decades. Hans Engelmann began producing heat meters in 1976 in a converted barn at his parents’ home. In 1983–1984, he moved the company’s headquarters to the location where Engelmann is still based today. In addition to numerous colleagues, members of the Engelmann family gathered for the official renaming ceremony. Among the guests were Hans Engelmann’s son Volker, his sister Margarethe Bayer, and his niece Karin Bayer. Wiesloch’s Mayor Dirk Elkemann and local council member Michael Glaser also attended the ceremony. Former local council member Karl-Heinz Markmann was also present. In brief speeches, Michael Keuthen, Dirk Elkemann, and Michael Glaser paid tribute to Hans Engelmann’s achievements and how the company has developed over the past decades. The renaming process is still in full swing. The street sign is up. Now it’s time to work out the details. It will take several months, if not years, before the new street name appears everywhere. But the foundation has been laid. Hans Engelmann would be proud.