The Horse H12 hybrid engine: a step toward ultra-efficient ICEs in the electrification era

Horse Powertrain, a joint venture between Renault and Geely, has unveiled the concept of the H12 hybrid engine, which could reshape perceptions of internal combustion engines in the electrification era.

According to the developers, the engine can achieve fuel consumption of up to 71 miles per gallon (≈3.3 L/100 km) and a thermal efficiency of 44.2%, placing it among the most efficient gasoline engines currently announced.

The H12 features a high 17:1 compression ratio, enabling more efficient fuel combustion. It is designed to operate on 100% renewable fuels, including synthetic e-fuels and biofuels, making it a viable solution for reducing carbon emissions without fully abandoning ICE technology.

Engineers have implemented an advanced turbocharging system, modernized exhaust gas recirculation, and a high-energy ignition system. Within a hybrid setup, the engine works in tandem with an electric motor and an intelligent energy management system that optimizes the balance between the combustion engine and electric drive, further reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The company has already built two H12 prototypes and plans further refinement aimed at mass production. Experts note that hybrid solutions like the H12 could extend the relevance of internal combustion engines during the global transition to EVs, particularly in regions with underdeveloped charging infrastructure.