The Spanish automotive industry, long seen as a perennial follower, has suddenly found itself in the global spotlight. Unexpectedly, even for the Spaniards themselves, a compact engine developed in Granada has become a talking point in American media. The reason is simple: this engine isn’t just another attempt to catch up with the Chinese or the Americans—it’s a genuine technological breakthrough that could shift the balance of power in the automotive industry. While some countries pour billions into electrification, Spain has quietly and without fanfare created a unit that, in terms of efficiency and compactness, can outshine many competitors.
While Europe and the US heatedly debate the future of electric cars, and China churns out batteries faster than Spaniards can cook paella, a development in Granada has made American journalists momentarily forget their own technological ambitions. The INNengine, despite its modest size, delivers power comparable to classic 2.8-liter engines. The irony: while Spaniards have grown used to admiring foreign achievements, now it’s across the ocean that people are discussing how they managed to create something so efficient and compact.
This story is not just another reason for national pride. It’s a signal to the entire sector: Spain is capable of not only copying but also setting trends. While Spanish engineers once played second fiddle, now their innovations are being discussed on other continents. Who would have thought that a Spanish engine would become the talk of American automotive media?
A Technological Challenge
The engine in question is not just another take on classic internal combustion engines. INNengine uses an opposed-piston design, resulting in incredible compactness and minimal weight. The final product occupies very little space but can replace much larger and less efficient counterparts. American experts, used to their V8s and V6s, are openly impressed: how did the Spanish manage to achieve such results with much smaller budgets and resources?
What’s especially impressive is that INNengine didn’t stop at a single model. The Granada-based startup introduced two versions: the e-REX with a capacity of 700 cubic centimeters and the REX-B with 125 cc. The former can replace four-stroke engines, the latter—two-stroke models, and both stand out for their minimal components and high reliability. At a time when the world is focused on simplifying and reducing production costs, the Spanish team managed to do so without compromising power or efficiency.
It’s no surprise that American journalists, accustomed to their own technological breakthroughs, are now taking a keen interest in Spain’s experience. Their articles reflect not only amazement but also envy: it turns out, things can be done more simply, cheaply, and efficiently—without sacrificing quality. The irony is that while Spain debates the future of its automotive industry, overseas they’re already discussing how to adopt this approach.
Minimalism versus gigantism
The main highlight of the Spanish engine is its size. At a time when cars are becoming bigger and heavier, INNengine is going against the flow. Its compactness and light weight make it usable where space or power previously had to be compromised. For manufacturers, it’s a real boon: fewer parts mean fewer breakdowns, lower production costs, easier maintenance. As automakers search for ways to cut production costs, this approach seems especially relevant.
Another advantage is versatility. INNengine can function not only as a primary engine, but also as a generator for hybrid and electric systems. As the world is torn between gasoline and electricity, the Spanish have offered a compromise: a compact internal combustion engine that fits perfectly with modern trends. American media are open about their surprise: it turns out, you don’t just have to follow the trends—you can create your own solutions that attract interest even from established industry leaders.
Special attention has been paid to the low vibration levels. In numerous videos already circulating on American websites, you can see the engine running almost silently. For those used to the roar of classic internal combustion engines, this is a real revelation. The Spanish appear determined to prove to the world that innovation isn’t always loud and expensive—sometimes it’s simply smart and purposeful.
Spain’s answer to electric vehicles
While the whole world is debating electrification, INNengine reminds us that the internal combustion engine still has a chance. Thanks to its design, this motor could be the ideal solution for hybrid vehicles with an extended range. Acting as a generator, it’s able to efficiently recharge batteries, providing autonomy without the need to haul around massive battery packs. This approach has already caught the interest of not only European but also American manufacturers who are seeking alternatives to conventional options.
In Spain, people have long been used to watching others succeed, but now the situation has changed. The development from Granada is an example of how to reach the global market without the backing of giant corporations or billion-euro investments. American media, which usually ignore European innovations, are now forced to acknowledge: the Spanish have accomplished what many thought impossible. The irony is that while the US is busy arguing about the future of the auto industry, Spain is already building that future with its own hands.
INNengine is not just another startup but a symbol of a new wave in Spanish technology. This company from Granada has managed in just a few years not only to develop a unique engine, but also to capture the attention of global experts. Its portfolio includes two compact engines already making headlines on another continent. For the Spanish automotive industry, this is more than a success—it’s a real breakthrough that could shift the balance of power on the global market. Where Spanish engineers once remained in the shadows, now their innovations are being discussed even in the US. One thing is certain: times are changing.
