New H12 hybrid engine promises to revolutionize efficiency with renewable fuel

Meet the H12 Concept, a hybrid engine that uses renewable Nexa-95, with efficiency gains of up to 40% and emission reductions without requiring infrastructure changes.

What is the H12 Concept?

A new concept for a hybrid engine, developed by Horse Powertrain, promises to revolutionize fuel efficiency by combining an ICE engine with a 100% renewable fuel. The H12 Concept claims to offer mileage gains of up to 40%.

Technical specifications and declared gains

Among the cited specifications are: 17:1 compression, peak thermal efficiency of 44.2%, and performance of about 71 miles per gallon (approx. 3.3 km/l). The team claims that if this engine were widely used, it could reduce emissions by up to 1.77 tons of CO2 per vehicle per year.

• Compression: 17:1
• Thermal efficiency: 44.2%
• Reported consumption: 71 mpg (≈ 3.3 km/l)
• Emission reduction: up to 1.77 t CO2/vehicle/year

Nexa-95: Repsol partnership's renewable fuel

Nexa-95 is an organic fuel produced by Repsol from organic waste and used cooking oils. Repsol already markets it in two regions of Spain as a high-quality octane 95 product. The partnership with Horse Powertrain is in the development stage, with expectations of presenting a demonstration vehicle soon.

Compatibility and environmental impact

A key point is the compatibility of Nexa-95 with conventional ICE vehicles without modifications, with a claimed reduction in net emissions of over 70% compared to traditional gasoline. The Nexa family also includes Nexa Diesel, available in selected locations in Spain and Portugal. Together, these technologies can revolutionize modern vehicles without requiring major changes to the refueling infrastructure.

Infrastructure and global reach

According to Repsol, renewable fuels are already used around the world, including in heavy transport, aviation, and maritime shipping. Cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Lines are already users of renewable marine fuels, indicating a viable path for expansion without the need to install new charging systems or shore-based refueling infrastructure.

What this means for the future of vehicles

With real applications already underway, the combination of a more efficient engine technology and a renewable fuel can facilitate a faster transition to consumer and commercial vehicles, potentially accelerating emission reductions without requiring massive overhauls to the supply network.

Comment: what do you find more promising: hybrid engines with renewable fuel or the expansion of infrastructure for EVs? Leave your opinion in the comments below.