Whispers of innovation linger here at the ehem. Werksflugplatz AEG. It was once a hub of activity. The Allgemeine Elektricitäts-Gesellschaft or AEG shaped the future from here.
AEG’s story began in 1883. Emil Rathenau founded it as the Deutsche Edison-Gesellschaft in Berlin. Rathenau secured rights to Edison’s light bulb. He lit cafés, restaurants, and theaters with electricity. By the late 1800s, AEG had built 248 power stations. These provided power for lighting, trams, and homes.
AEG expanded rapidly in the early 20th century. The company produced electrical equipment like light bulbs and motors. It became involved in AC electric transmission systems. AEG even entered the automobile and airplane markets. The company supplied electrical equipment for German railways for a long time. AEG was a major electrical manufacturer.
In 1907, Peter Behrens became AEG’s artistic consultant. He shaped the company’s corporate identity. Behrens designed products and advertising with common features. His designs reflected strength and simplicity.
One notable creation was the AEG Turbine Factory. It was designed for producing steam turbines. These turbines powered electricity generation. The factory’s design was groundbreaking. Its steel, concrete, and glass construction was innovative. The building featured inward-inclined glazed areas. Its facade displayed the company logo and “Turbinenfabrik.”
The AEG Turbine Factory became an icon of industrial architecture. Some considered it a temple of power. Others likened it to an updated Parthenon. The design moved beyond simple functionality. It expressed the spirit of the modern age.
During World War II, AEG supported the Nazi regime. The company used forced labor from concentration camps. After the war, AEG’s headquarters moved to Frankfurt am Main.
In 1967, AEG merged with Telefunken. The company became AEG-Telefunken. Financial difficulties led to asset sales. Daimler-Benz acquired AEG in 1985. The company was integrated into Daimler-Benz in 1996.
Electrolux acquired the rights to the AEG brand in 2005. Today, the AEG name appears on various products. These include home appliances and power tools. Various brand partners use the AEG name under license.
AEG’s legacy extends to locomotives and railway technology. The company played a key role in developing German electric locomotives. AEG also produced steam locomotives.
AEG also ventured into aircraft manufacturing. The company built planes from 1912 to 1918. One design was the Riesenflugzeug, a giant aircraft. AEG’s G.IV bomber saw significant production. During World War II, AEG produced reconnaissance machines.
The AEG brand still exists today. Electrolux actively promotes the brand. The name is licensed to other companies for diverse products. AEG’s influence spans power solutions, telecommunications, and home appliances.
The ehem. Werksflugplatz AEG reminds us of a time of innovation. AEG helped shape the modern world. Its products and designs impacted industries globally. The spirit of AEG lives on in the products bearing its name.