While the world has been holding its breath waiting for full electrification, China has quietly proven that the internal combustion engine still has a few tricks up its sleeve. The Dongan division, part of the giant Changan, has thrown down a technological gauntlet to European regulators, announcing the successful launch of its latest unit. It is a 1.5-liter turbo engine that not only works, but already meets the draconian requirements of the Euro VII standard - an achievement that many considered almost impossible for a conventional machine.
This engineering masterpiece with the M15NTH index is not intended for retrograde vehicles, but is specially calibrated to be the “heart” of modern plug-in hybrid systems (PHEV). On December 25, in the early hours of the day, the test laboratory of the Harbin Research Institute turned into an arena of triumph. The first turn of the key passed without a single hitch, marking a new era in the development of hybrids.
To achieve such environmental cleanliness, Chinese engineers have resorted to a real technological arsenal. The engine operates on the highly efficient Miller cycle, uses a variable-flow oil pump and an advanced system for recirculating cooled exhaust gases (EGR). Added to this is a centrally located VVT system and an intake manifold with a pre-catalytic converter, thanks to which this engine manages to “breathe“ so cleanly. The increased compression ratio and optimized thermal efficiency make it the perfect partner for the electrical part of the powertrain.
Dongan, whose history dates back to 1948, is no stranger to the game – their engines power popular models such as the Li Auto One. However, this new project is more than just a statistic; it is the strategic finale of the company's current five-year plan and a clear signal to the global market. While Euro VII will not officially come into force until July 2027, China is already ready to welcome it with a flying start. In the meantime, the company does not stop experimenting, even presenting its first rotary engine R05E, showing that their technical ambitions have no limits.
