Our history
Our history
Founded in 1915 our namesake, Sir Harry Ricardo, for over 100 years we have been at the forefront of engineering and technology innovation for propulsion, driveline and energy systems.
Since our founding, Ricardo's characteristics have stayed the same, to engineering progress, maximising efficiency and eliminating waste.
The founding of Ricardo
Harry Ricardo was one of the most innovative and forward-thinking engineers of his time. In 1915, Harry created the first British-designed engine to be mass produced, and founded Engine Patents Ltd, the precursor of Ricardo.
Although its objectives were wide-ranging, in essence, the company's purpose was to provide the finance and facilities that Harry Ricardo needed to continue with engineering design, research and development.
Ricardo Comet - enhancing mobility performance
The famous Ricardo Comet combustion system for high-speed diesel engines was developed, initially for AEC to use in London bus services.
Changing the face of motorsport
Ricardo designs and develops viscous coupling: one of the most significant motorsport innovations which turned world rallying on its head.
The start of a mini adventure
BMW appointed Ricardo as the technical partner to lead the MINI powertrain programme.
Ricardo supports world’s first solar-connected railway
Ricardo supports Riding Sunbeams, integrating solar power technologies directly into rail infrastructure.
sHYpS
ShYps
Ricardo developed a multi-stack hydrogen fuel cell zero-emission systems for shipping.
BIOCCUS
Bioccus
BIOCCUS is a combined heat and power plant that processes biowaste to produce biochar, food grade CO2, generate heat and power, and capture carbon dioxide. It demonstrates the effectiveness of community-scale carbon capture technology for clean energy and national energy security and circular economy applications.