1920—1932: From Versuchsbau Hellmuth Hirth to Elektronmetall G.m.b.H.
| 1920 | Hermann Mahle joins Versuchsbau Hellmuth Hirth, marking the birth of the MAHLE Group as it is known today |
| 1921 | First series production of light-alloy pistons in Europe |
| 1922 | Dr. Ernst Mahle joins Leichtmetall-Werke G.m.b.H., Stuttgart-Cannstatt (the successor to Versuchsbau Hellmuth Hirth) |
| 1924 | Company renamed Elektronmetall G.m.b.H., Stuttgart-Cannstatt (EC) Use of newly developed lightweight pistons for motorsport activities |
| 1926 | Hermann Mahle appointed Managing Director Commercial Affairs of EC |
| 1927 | Dr. Ernst Mahle appointed Managing Director Technical Affairs of EC |
| 1929 | Start of series production of air, oil, and fuel filters |
| 1930 | Production of the first cylinder liners made of nitrided steel |
| 1931 | Ring carrier piston developed by Dr. Ernst Mahle registered for patent |
