Chemical Industry News, Data & Insights

Horse Powertrain and Repsol Develop Efficient Hybrid Powertrain with Renewable Gasoline

Key highlights
  • The HORSE H12 Concept engine achieves 44.2% peak brake thermal efficiency and reduces fuel consumption by 40%.
  • The first demonstrator vehicle is expected in early 2026.
  • Repsol's 100% renewable gasoline is compatible with existing vehicles and available at 30 stations in Spain.
  • Repsol will start operations at a second renewable fuels plant in Puertollano in 2026.

Introduction

Horse Powertrain and Repsol have developed a next-generation hybrid powertrain, the HORSE H12 Concept engine, which offers significant improvements in efficiency and emissions reduction.

Technical Achievements

The HORSE H12 Concept engine achieves a peak brake thermal efficiency of 44.2% and reduces vehicle fuel consumption by 40% compared to the 2023 average for new passenger cars in Europe. It incorporates a 17:1 compression ratio, an advanced exhaust gas recirculation system, an optimized turbocharger, and a high-energy ignition system.

Environmental Impact

Using 100% renewable gasoline, a mid-sized car with this powertrain can emit 1.77 tons less CO₂ annually than traditional vehicles. This innovation supports the transition to net-zero emissions by offering immediate CO2 reduction solutions.

Project Development

The project is led by teams from Horse Technologies in Valladolid and the Repsol Technology Lab in Madrid. Two prototypes have been produced, with the first demonstrator vehicle expected in early 2026, marking a step towards industrial production of efficient hybrid engines.

Renewable Fuel Production

Repsol has achieved a milestone by producing 100% renewable gasoline at an industrial scale in Tarragona. This gasoline is compatible with existing vehicles and is available at 30 service stations in Spain. Repsol plans to start operations at a second renewable fuels plant in Puertollano in 2026 and will launch a demonstrator e-fuels plant in Bilbao the same year.