Motorine

Motorine is a term used in speculative discussions to denote a hypothetical hydrocarbon liquid intended as an automotive fuel. It is not a standardized chemical compound and has no universally accepted composition. In various sources, motorine is described as a high-energy, gasoline-like liquid designed to balance performance with lower emissions.

Chemically, motorine is depicted as a refined blend of saturated and mildly branched hydrocarbons, similar to gasoline or certain diesel-range fractions, with a focus on high octane and controlled volatility. Production pathways are described as conventional refinery processes such as hydrocracking, catalytic reforming, and blending, or alternative synthesis routes like Fischer-Tropsch followed by isomerization and blending. Because it is hypothetical, there is no established specification for sulfur content, vapor pressure, or distillation curve.

In engine terms, motorine is envisioned to provide good knock resistance, adequate lubricity, and compatibility with standard spark-ignition engines. Some proposals emphasize compatibility with existing fuel infrastructure and minimal engine modification.

Safety and environmental considerations mirror those of conventional hydrocarbon fuels, including flammability and volatile organic compound emissions. Because motorine is not an established fuel, regulatory definitions and fuel economy data do not exist.