Those of us who own and operate motor vehicles go to the gas station and fill our takes with gasoline which powers millions of cars, motorcycles, and sports utility vehicles around the world. However, we may also see a dedicated pump for diesel fuel. Growing up I did not know much about it except to never put it in the car’s fuel tank unless specifically required. So, when I saw this book about Rudolf Diesel (1858-1913), the engineer behind the world-famous engine, my curiosity peaked. The automotive technology which carries his name is fascinating and it revolutionized engine design and use. But I wanted to know more about the man behind the engine, and his mysterious death in September 1913. Author Douglas Brunt explores Diesel’s life and death in this well-written and well-researched book which left me with more questions than answers.

Although Diesel spoke German, the story begins in Paris where his Bavarian immigrant family resides. From the outset, his father Theodore is an odd character, and his behavior throughout the story is surreal at times. The family’s life is stable until the outbreak of the Franco-Prussian War in 1870, which forces them to emigrate to London. However, for Rudolph, life soon takes a different turn when his parents send him back to his father’s native Augsburg to learn Germany and focus on his studies. And this crucial decision set the stage for the innovative mind that changed world history. Once Diesel decides on his future as an engineer, the story picks up the pace. But the author also includes a discussion on the emergence of oil and the role of John D. Rockefeller (1839-1937) and industry giant Standard Oil. Although Diesel and Rockefeller had no direct connections, their roles in the development of engines and fuel technology cannot be underestimated. Standard Oil plays a significant role in the story as readers will learn.

We follow Diesel’s journey as he meets senior engineers who play important roles in his later success. One of the most important is Carl von Linde (1834-1942), whose refrigeration cycle provided the blueprint to the machines which keep our ice and groceries consistently cool. Diesel’s time working with and for Linde proves to be invaluable. While the young engineer is proving his worth on the factory floor, love enters his life when Martha Flasche (1860-1944) catches his attention. Their marriage provides a source of strength for Diesel when professional obligations take their toll. Interestingly, Martha plays a part in the development of the engine but not in the way readers may expect. When the first diesel engine has a successful test run, the game changes as Rudolf’s value to his field increases exponentially. However, this breakthrough may have also been the reason for his unsettling demise.

As I read the story, I found myself fascinated with diesel technology. The author provides a very thorough analysis of the science behind Diesel’s marvel and the benefits that come with its use. However, initially the new engine had its skeptics as explained in the book. But once word spread of an innovative technology which allowed less maintenance, better gas mileage, no smokestacks on ships and cleaner combustion, the flood gates opened and Diesel’s path to fame is paved. The surge is quick and the money rolls in, but Diesel’s true goal was much larger than money, and had the world not become engulfed in war, he may have seen his dream come true. But the book is still fascinating, and as Diesel moves through social circles, he finds himself the center of attention, spending time with innovative giants, one of whom was the world-famous Thomas Edison (1847-1934). It is a surreal ride to the stop, but dark clouds begin to form on the horizon, and England moves to form stronger bonds with Diesel and his engine which is vital to naval operations.

As World War I nears the story takes on a darker tone as the grim reality of impending conflict becomes real. In September 1913, Diesel prepared for a trip on the SS Dresden across the English Channel from Belgium to London. The Dresden arrived at its destination, but Diesel did not. This part of the story is the most chilling and unhinged. Officially, he perished at sea due to suicide, but there are credible reasons to question that position. Brunt examines the case thoroughly and provides another angle to the incident which is also plausible. Diesel’s actions prior to the trip are unusual and raise the question, did he know what was coming? We can only surmise and the passage of time further ensures that Rudolf Diesel’s death is set to remain a mystery. Regardless of that fact, Brunt’s book is engaging from start to finish, and I found it to be a solid account of Diesel’s life and his importance to engine technology. Highly recommended.

ASIN : ‎ B0BV123PC8
Publisher : ‎ Atria Books, September 19, 2023