The Lorenz company was founded in 1882 to produce and repair agricultural machinery in Kromeriz, Moravia, which was ruled under the Habsburg Monarchy.

The company survived the change of government to democratic republic in 1918 and the German occupation beginning in 1938. When the Communists gained power in 1948, Lorenz' buildings were seized and the machinery and manufacturing rights were transferred elsewhere.

This engine was built circa 1920. It produces three horsepower. Speed is regulated by stopping the primary intake valve. When the engine slows, the cam moves under the follower, allowing the valve to open. The secondary intake valve is then opened by atmospheric pressure. When it opens, its stem pulls open a third valve, which allows fuel to flow into the air stream.