Starting with the production of stationary engines for the agricultural sector, vehicle engine production also picks up speed under Dr. Theodor A. Ebster’s leadership. Rotax is still producing under Fichtel & Sachs licenses, including stationary 2-3 HP petrol engines for sewing machines, circular saws and pest control sprayers. It is also producing spare parts for Sachs engines and supplying components to other companies. The precarious rental sector and unstable economic situation do not yet allow for any large-scale series production. Former German skilled personnel must be replaced by Austrian staff, which often requires contract labor. However, from the early 1950s, an economic upturn arrives in the form of the mobility miracle, with demand for motorcycles, scooters and mopeds especially high. More and more opportunities open up for Rotax. As early as 1946, production includes a fan-cooled vehicle engine with four speed transmission. A power range of 2-12 HP provides sufficient power for two-wheelers, small cars and even for vans.

Its excellent reputation precedes Rotax, and the company quickly gains a leading position not just in agriculture, but also in vehicle construction.  “In the field of light stationary petrol engine construction, Rotax-Werk AG in Austria is so dominant that almost all companies use Rotax engines. The performance of these engines ranges from 2 to 12 HP. (...) Due to their low weight and thriftiness, they are the ideal source of power wherever electric motors cannot be used”, the Vienna Trade Fair publication Wo-Maschinen-Funk Wien reports in 1953.  At this time, Rotax also begins to supply manufacturers of small motorcycles, scooters and mopeds.  The company recognizes the needs of the new market and makes a significant contribution to the motorization of the population. By the late 1950s, a new vision is emerging from the annual reports: To succeed internationally, the company will need to achieve greater independence from the Fichtel & Sachs portfolio, focus more on in-house innovations and develop products beyond the classic engine types.