A hybrid powertrain developed by Horse Powertrain, the joint venture between Renault and Geely, is expected to enter large-scale application in 2026.
The latest news Horse Technologies, a division of Horse Powertrain, in fact reveals that they signed an agreement to supply engines for the 2026 Caterham Academy series.
The 1.3-litre, 4-cylinder ‘HR13’ turbo engine will power vehicles competing in its 2026 Academy Championship. Featuring direct injection technology, the high-performance gasoline engine with bespoke tuning will be able to deliver peak power of 130bhp (132PS) and a peak torque of 176Nm at 5,150rpm.
The system with hybrid powertrain developed by Horse is designed to significantly extend the range of electric vehicles (EVs) by integrating a compact thermal unit that acts as a range extender, transforming fully electric cars into efficient hybrids.
The innovation is backed by several strategic partners, including Saudi energy giant Aramco, which has joined the development effort to accelerate the system’s readiness for global deployment.
Technical details
At the heart of Horse’s Future Hybrid Concept is a 1.2-liter, three-cylinder internal combustion engine engineered to seamlessly integrate with existing front-wheel-drive EV architectures. Operating exclusively as a generator, the engine activates only when battery levels are low or driving conditions demand additional power, enabling a total driving range of up to 800 km—a substantial improvement over the current average of 400–500 km for battery electric vehicles.
Crucially, the internal combustion engine is calibrated to run consistently at its most efficient RPM range, which contributes to up to 40% lower emissions compared to conventional hybrid powertrains. The system also emphasizes fuel flexibility, supporting a wide array of fuels including gasoline, E85 ethanol blends, methanol, and synthetic fuels—making it suitable for diverse global markets and climates.
Horse’s hybrid unit is designed for maximum compatibility, requiring minimal changes to existing chassis configurations. A 25-liter fuel tank is sufficient for several weeks of typical urban driving, during which the thermal engine remains in standby, prioritizing electric-only operation for most daily commutes.
The company said that with its unique combination of extended range, low emissions, minimal infrastructure demands, and global adaptability, the Future Hybrid Concept aims to provide a pragmatic bridge toward full electrification—especially in regions where EV charging networks are still under development.
