Horse Powertrain, a joint venture between Geely, Renault Group, and Aramco, has announced a breakthrough in hybrid engine technology, aiming for 40% lower fuel consumption compared to current European averages. The new powertrain, slated for demonstration in early 2026, is designed to run entirely on renewable gasoline, marking a significant step in internal combustion engine (ICE) efficiency improvements.
Hybrid Technology Remains Viable
This development comes at a time when automakers are pursuing multiple routes to decarbonization. While battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are gaining prominence, hybrid systems still play a crucial role, especially in regions with limited EV infrastructure or where consumer preferences favor ICE vehicles. Horse Powertrain’s announcement signals that ICE technology is not being abandoned; rather, it’s being refined to meet stricter emissions standards and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Horse Powertrain: A Global Powertrain Supplier
Established in 2024, Horse Powertrain consolidates the hybrid and ICE operations of Geely and Renault. The company’s ownership structure – 45% Geely, 45% Renault, and 10% Aramco – underscores a strategic alliance between automotive manufacturing, energy production, and supply chain control. As a key supplier, Horse Powertrain supports brands like Renault, Geely Auto, Volvo Cars, Nissan, Mitsubishi Motors, and Proton with engines and hybrid systems.
The H12 Hybrid Engine: Technical Specifications
The core of the new technology is the Horse H12 hybrid engine concept, developed with Spanish energy company Repsol. Key features include:
- High Compression Ratio : 17:1, maximizing combustion efficiency.
- Redesigned EGR System : Optimizing exhaust gas recirculation for improved performance.
- Optimized Turbocharging : Enhancing power output and fuel economy.
- Hybrid Calibration : Fine-tuned transmission settings for seamless integration with electric components.
These enhancements result in a peak brake thermal efficiency of 44.2%, allowing fuel consumption to drop below 3.3 liters per 100 km under WLTP test conditions – a substantial improvement over the 2023 European average.
Renewable Gasoline Integration
The engine is designed to operate solely on Repsol’s fully renewable gasoline, produced from sustainable feedstocks. This means that the entire fuel lifecycle, from production to combustion, can be carbon neutral or even negative, depending on the sourcing of the renewable inputs. A mid-size vehicle equipped with this hybrid system could reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 1.77 tons per year based on 12,500 km of annual driving.
Global Manufacturing and Future Outlook
Horse Powertrain operates 17 manufacturing plants and five R&D centers worldwide, serving as a critical supplier for both Geely- and Renault-linked vehicle platforms. The company has already built and tested two prototype engines, with the first demonstrator vehicle expected in early 2026.
This hybrid powertrain represents a strategic move towards sustainable mobility, showcasing how ICE technology can adapt to meet the demands of a rapidly changing automotive landscape.
The development confirms that hybrid systems will remain relevant as automakers and suppliers navigate the transition to full electrification, accommodating diverse regional conditions and consumer needs.
