Horse Powertrain teams with Repsol on state-of-the-art hybrid engine
The HORSE H12 Concept engine introduces improvements in the combustion system and reduces internal losses, achieving a maximum thermal efficiency (BTE) of 44.2%. In addition, the fuel consumption of the vehicle decreases by 40% – compared to the average of new passenger cars registered in Europe in 20231 – to below 3.3 liters per 100 kilometers, according to the European approval test (WLTP).
Maximizing efficiency directly results in lower fuel consumption and a proportional reduction in 2CO2 emissions. With the use of 100% renewable fuel, a medium-sized car equipped with the HORSE H12 Concept engine and running an average of 12,500 kilometers a year will emit 1.77 tons less CO2 than a vehicle with a traditional combustion engine using conventional fuel.
The hybrid propulsion system incorporates the HORSE H12 Concept engine, an evolution of the HR12 engine that integrates an innovative combustion system with a compression ratio of 17:1. The assembly is completed with a next-generation exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, an optimized turbocharger and a high-energy ignition system. In addition, it has an improved hybrid gearbox with optimized energy management and reduced internal friction thanks to the new Repsol lubricants.
The project, led by the Horse Technology Division teams in Valladolid and the Repsol Technology Lab in Madrid, has already produced its first two prototypes and validated its performance. The first demonstrator vehicle is expected to be presented in early 2026. This advance marks the first step towards the industrial production of high-efficiency hybrid engines.
Category: Fuels
