A pioneering advancement in automotive engineering has emerged from Romania with the commencement of mass production for the world's inaugural liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) direct-injection engine. This monumental achievement is spearheaded by Horse Technologies, a collaborative endeavor between the Renault Group and the Geely Fund, dedicated to creating next-generation combustion and hybrid power units. The new HR12 LPG engine marks a significant departure from conventional designs, integrating a state-of-the-art dual-fuel system that operates seamlessly on both gasoline and LPG. Its introduction is set to redefine efficiency and environmental performance in the automotive sector, offering a sustainable solution that meets stringent emission standards.
This innovative powerplant is not merely a step but a leap forward in propulsion technology. Beyond its capacity to utilize two distinct fuel sources, its core innovation lies in applying direct injection technology to LPG, a feature previously unavailable in mass-produced engines. Coupled with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, the HR12 LPG is engineered to deliver enhanced torque during acceleration, optimize fuel consumption, and substantially reduce carbon dioxide emissions. With a robust production capacity of 450,000 units annually at Horse's Romanian facility, this engine is poised to make a considerable impact on the global automotive landscape, demonstrating a tangible commitment to environmentally conscious engineering without compromising performance.
The Dawn of Dual-Fuel Direct Injection
The automotive industry is witnessing a transformative moment with the introduction of the HR12 LPG engine by Horse Technologies. This revolutionary 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder unit sets a new benchmark as the first mass-produced engine globally to employ direct injection technology for both gasoline and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Its design integrates a sophisticated 48-volt mild-hybrid system, which includes a belt-driven starter generator and a DC/DC converter. This hybrid integration enhances the engine's performance by providing supplementary torque during acceleration and significantly contributes to a reduction in fuel consumption. A key environmental benefit is the notable 9% decrease in CO2 emissions when the engine runs on LPG compared to gasoline, underscoring its commitment to cleaner air and a reduced carbon footprint. This technological marvel, developed by engineering teams in Romania, is not only Euro 6e compliant but also anticipates future Euro 7 standards, showcasing its advanced environmental capabilities. With a formidable output of 138 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 170 pound-feet of torque available from as low as 2,100 rpm, the HR12 LPG engine combines power with unparalleled efficiency.
The HR12 LPG engine represents a significant departure from existing dual-fuel systems, which predominantly rely on indirect injection for LPG, often leading to compromises in efficiency and performance. The unique direct injection system for LPG, coupled with an electronic vaporizer for precise compression control and reinforced mechanical components, allows for a more optimized and precise combustion process. This meticulous engineering ensures improved power delivery and superior efficiency, all while minimizing fuel consumption and emissions. The thoughtful design extends to practicality, with the LPG tank cleverly integrated into the spare tire compartment, preserving interior space. This comprehensive approach to engine development, combining direct injection, mild-hybrid assistance, and large-scale industrial production, marks an unprecedented achievement in the realm of alternative fuel technology. Horse Technologies' CEO, Patrice Haettel, emphasizes that the HR12 LPG engine is a testament to their dedication to delivering genuinely innovative powertrain solutions across all fuel types, solidifying their position as leaders in alternative fuels expertise. The sheer scale of its production capacity, at 450,000 units per year, signifies the wide-reaching impact this engine is expected to have on the automotive market, making advanced clean engine technology accessible on a broader scale.
Unprecedented Hybrid Technology and Environmental Advancements
The HR12 LPG engine introduces an unprecedented combination of innovations that set it apart in the automotive industry, particularly its pioneering use of direct injection for LPG in a mass-produced engine. Traditional bi-fuel engines often struggle with the efficiency and performance limitations of indirect LPG injection, where fuel and air are mixed before entering the combustion chamber. Horse Technologies' breakthrough overcomes this by precisely injecting LPG directly into the cylinders, leading to a more complete and efficient burn. This advancement, combined with a sophisticated 48-volt mild-hybrid system, optimizes power delivery and significantly reduces fuel consumption. The mild-hybrid component, featuring a belt-driven starter generator and DC/DC converter, actively contributes to lower CO2 emissions, demonstrating a profound commitment to environmental stewardship. The engine's capability to meet both current Euro 6e standards and future Euro 7 regulations underscores its forward-thinking design and its role in propelling the automotive sector towards a greener future. The meticulous integration of these technologies represents a significant leap from current bi-fuel engine capabilities, offering enhanced performance with a reduced environmental impact.
This engine is a technological tour de force, embodying three crucial innovations never before seen together in a liquefied petroleum gas engine: direct injection, mild-hybrid assistance, and industrial-scale production. The precision offered by direct injection allows for a more controlled and optimized combustion, leading to superior power output and improved overall efficiency. This precision is further augmented by the mild-hybrid system, which provides instant torque and contributes to fuel savings, making the HR12 LPG an exceptionally versatile and environmentally friendly option. Beyond its technical prowess, the engine's readiness for mass production at Horse's state-of-the-art facility in Mioveni, Romania, signifies its potential to revolutionize the market for alternative fuel vehicles. By blending these advanced technologies, Horse Technologies is not merely introducing a new engine; it is establishing a new standard for cleaner, more efficient hybrid propulsion systems. The CEO's remarks highlight that this engine is a testament to their leadership in alternative fuel solutions, confirming that the HR12 LPG engine is indeed a world-first that pushes the boundaries of automotive innovation, promising a cleaner and more powerful driving experience for consumers.