Horse Technologies Unveils HR18 HEV Hybrid Powertrain

Horse Technologies, a division under Horse Powertrain, debuted its first fully integrated hybrid powertrain system, the HR18 HEV.

Developed as a complete solution combining combustion, electric, and transmission technologies, the new unit marks a significant step forward in hybrid propulsion for global markets.

The HR18 HEV is the first full system designed, engineered, and produced entirely under the Horse Powertrain name. Engineering and development were led by R&D teams in Romania and Spain, with manufacturing set to take place at facilities in Valladolid, Spain, and Bursa, Türkiye.

At the heart of the system is the new HR18 engine, a 1.8-litre 4-cylinder gasoline direct injection unit developed specifically for hybrid applications. It operates on the Atkinson cycle and meets both Euro 6E-BIS and the upcoming Euro 7 emission standards.

Weighing just 100 KG, the engine delivers 80 kW (107 HP) of power and 172 NM of torque, and is capable of running on fuel blends containing up to 10% ethanol.

Supporting the engine is the next-generation BTA Gen2 lithium-ion battery, developed at Horse Technologies’ Valladolid R&D center. Compact and lightweight at 36KG, the battery offers a capacity of 1.4 kWh, a peak discharge of 11.6 Ah, and operates across a voltage range of 150 to 279 volts.

It uses two modules of 34 cells and features an integrated cooling system for improved thermal management.

The HR18 HEV also includes the clutchless DB45S transmission developed in Seville, capable of handling up to 436 NM of torque. Meanwhile, the 5DH electric motor, produced in Aveiro, Portugal, delivers peak output of 50 kW (67 HP) and 212 NM of torque.

According to Horse Powertrain CEO Matias Giannini, the brand’s fully integrated hybrid setup will help OEMs reduce development time and cost while maintaining flexibility in vehicle design.

Patrice Haettel, CEO of Horse Technologies, added that the new hybrid system reflects the brand’s long-term commitment to supporting the automotive industry’s transition to lower-emission solutions.

Designed from the outset as a global product, the HR18 HEV aims to offer OEMs a scalable, high-performance hybrid platform that simplifies integration while supporting broader carbon reduction goals.

As a refresher, Horse Powertrain is an engine-making joint venture established by China’s Geely and France’s Renault, with both automakers holding equal 50:50 stakes. The company currently operates five R&D centers, 17 factories, and employs 19,000 people worldwide.

The company’s strong focus on hybrid technology follows recent remarks by Geely Auto CEO Gui Shengyue, who noted that hybrid technology set to become a key profit driver commanding 40% global market share.