Introducing the most powerful V12 ever to be fitted to a road car

A 6.6-litre V12 engine and electric hybrid system combine for a staggering 1,850bhp

What you’re looking at today is the first example of the most powerful engine to ever be fitted to a road-going car.

Yes, that’s right, Zenvo Automotive will be the ones to try ‘Mjølner’, a 6.6-litre V12 with four turbos producing 1250bhp alone. Combine that with an electric hybrid system and you have a 1,850bhp beast that will be the beating heart of the new Aurora.

The engine, which has been developed with the team at Mahle Powertrain in Northampton, will now be put through its paces as the first prototypes enter testing.

“Designed to stimulate the senses”

“A key part of the Aurora programme is around delivering an emotional connection for drivers and passengers, designed to stimulate the senses,” explained Jens Sverdrup, Zenvo Automotive, Chairman. “Sound and visceral drama is what Aurora will be all about, and the engine is a vital element in this, which we will turn up to 11. At Zenvo, we are a team of passionate, genuine ‘car guys’, and it is not every day that a V12 engine is born, so it is very proud moment and very exciting to finally showcase Mjølner.

The fact it is the world’s most powerful roadcar engine was not something we set out to achieve, but is a result of us pushing what we know is possible. This is a hugely important milestone, and the next step will see – and hear! – it come to life, and it has been designed to deliver at every level, which shows the progress we continue to make.” 

Developed specifically for the road

Mjølner has been developed ‘specifically for the road’ rather than being ‘motorsport-derived’, even with its 9,800rpm redline. It also meets all current and future emissions guidelines around the world, no doubt helped by its added hybrid power.

The engine concept will continue to be developed and used in different forms across future Zenvo models. Full production of the Aurora is likely to begin in 2026.

“We are so close to hearing the soundtrack of the Mjølner engine, and everyone is waiting with anticipation to hear that first roar into life. It will be a defining moment in automotive history,” said John Hollingworth, MAHLE Powertrain, Sales & Marketing Director.

Talk about a build up…

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Zenvo Automotive