What To Know
- This compact electric motor is not intended as the main engine in a modern vehicle but operates alongside an internal combustion engine (ICE) in mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid applications.
- Optimized integration for vehicle flexibilityHorse has succeeded in reducing the size of the eMotor enough so it can be integrated between the combustion engine and transmission, providing power in both hybrid and fully electric driving modes.
- This article explores the development and launch of Horse’s new miniature hybrid engine, highlighting its potential to transform the automotive industry by offering a powerful and efficient alternative to traditional engines in hybrid and electric vehicles.
A groundbreaking engine from France is set to revolutionize the automotive industry, offering a formidable challenge to market leaders with its unparalleled performance.
a new era for hybrid engines
In 2023, a joint venture between Renault Group and Geely birthed Horse, a company devoted to next-generation powertrain technologies. Unlike other startups in the sector, Horse doesn’t stop at producing electric motors and batteries for fully electric vehicles. The company aims to develop a comprehensive range of efficient combustion engines, transmissions, and electric components for new generations of hybrid and low-emission vehicles.
launch of the radial flux eMotor production
This week, Horse announced the commencement of production for its new electric motor, the 49 kW (66 hp) radial flux eMotor, at its Aveiro plant in Portugal. This compact electric motor is not intended as the main engine in a modern vehicle but operates alongside an internal combustion engine (ICE) in mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid applications. It delivers up to 156 ft-lb of torque.
optimized integration for vehicle flexibility
Horse has succeeded in reducing the size of the eMotor enough so it can be integrated between the combustion engine and transmission, providing power in both hybrid and fully electric driving modes. The eMotor can operate in all-electric direct drive at speeds up to 81 mph while maximizing wheel output in hybrid mode for faster acceleration. During deceleration, the eMotor acts as a generator to recharge the onboard battery.
compatibility with Horse’s combustion engines
The eMotor has been specifically developed for use with Horse’s combustion engines, including models HR12, HR16, and HR18, which have displacements ranging from 1.2 to 1.8 liters. The three-cylinder 1.2-liter model, the HR12, began production last July and offers 96 kW (129 hp) and 170 ft-lb of torque in a basic configuration.
a favorable context for hybrids
The launch of Horse as a subsidiary and its subsequent expansion seem timely as hybrid vehicles gain popularity. Despite years dominated by news of electric vehicles, 2024 saw hybrids make a strong comeback with nearly a 37% increase in annual sales in the United States, contributing to the best automotive sales year since the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Significant growth in hybrid car sales
- Increased consumer interest
- A shift back towards fuel efficiency
Horse’s production capabilities
Horse plans to build up to 160,000 eMotors per year thanks to four new assembly lines installed at its Aveiro facility. Each line is dedicated to one part of motor production such as machining the motor housing and rotor shaft.
This article explores the development and launch of Horse’s new miniature hybrid engine, highlighting its potential to transform the automotive industry by offering a powerful and efficient alternative to traditional engines in hybrid and electric vehicles.
