Revolutionary engine achieves unprecedented fuel efficiency: 114 kilometers per liter

A breakthrough in automotive efficiency

The Automotive industry is relentlessly pursuing enhanced engine efficiency, particularly for vehicles powered by new energy sources. Now, a significant leap forward has been achieved by Horse Powertrain, a joint venture between Renault Group, Geely, and Repsol. They’ve unveiled a groundbreaking engine boasting an astonishing fuel efficiency of 114 kilometers per liter – a true game-changer in the sector. This marks a pivotal moment in the quest for sustainable transportation solutions.

Introducing the horse h12 concept

The innovative engine, dubbed the Horse H12 Concept, is a cutting-edge hybrid motor designed to run on 100% renewable gasoline. Repsol has been championing this type of green fuel for years, and this collaboration showcases the potential of combining advanced engine technology with sustainable fuels. The engine’s design incorporates significant improvements to the combustion system and reduces internal losses, resulting in a maximum thermal efficiency (BTE) of an impressive 44.2%.

Significant fuel consumption reduction

The Horse H12 Concept demonstrates a remarkable 40% reduction in fuel consumption, achieving a figure of less than 3.3 liters per 100 kilometers, as validated by the rigorous European WLTP homologation testing. This translates to a substantial decrease in fuel costs for drivers and a directly proportional reduction in CO2 emissions. Maximizing efficiency is key, and this engine proves it.

The importance of technologically neutral innovation

According to Patrice Haettel, Director of Operations at Horse Powertrain, the Horse H12 concept exemplifies how efficient engines and renewable fuels can reduce emissions immediately, without waiting for future technologies. Horse Powertrain advocates for a technologically neutral approach, fostering innovation across all solutions – electric, hybrid, range extenders, and low-carbon fuels – rather than relying on a single technology.

Environmental impact: reduced co2 emissions

Repsol estimates that a mid-size car equipped with the Horse H12 Concept, driven an average of 12,500 kilometers annually using 100% renewable fuel, would emit 1.77 tons less CO2 compared to a vehicle with a conventional combustion engine using conventional fuel. This underscores the significant environmental benefits of this technology and the potential for a cleaner transportation sector.

Spanish-led innovation and engine technology

The project, led by teams from Horse's Technology Division in Valladolid and Repsol Technology Lab in Madrid, incorporates a hybrid propulsion system featuring the Horse H12 Concept – an evolution of the HR12 engine. Key innovations include a 17:1 compression ratio combustion system, a new-generation exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, an optimized turbocharger, and a high-energy ignition system. Improved lubricants from Repsol also contribute to reduced internal friction within the hybrid gearbox.

Timeline and future plans

Two prototypes have already been produced and validated. The first demonstrator vehicle is expected to be presented in early 2026. This represents a crucial first step towards industrial production of high-efficiency hybrid engines. This initiative contributes to the transition of the mobility sector towards net-zero emissions, embracing a principle of technological neutrality.

The current automotive landscape

Given that 97% of the European car parc currently consists of combustion engine vehicles, as highlighted by ACEA, this project represents a vital step towards a more sustainable future. The Horse H12 Concept offers a practical and accessible solution for reducing CO2 emissions in the short term, complementing the rise of electric vehicles and paving the way for a cleaner, more efficient Automotive landscape.