Discover HORSE's Innovative DB49 Transmission: Revolutionising Hybrid Vehicles
HORSE, a division of Horse Powertrain known for its innovative low-emission powertrain systems, has commenced production of the new 'DB49' transmission at its Seville plant in Spain.
HORSE has designed the DB49 transmission in-house, marking its first foray into this field. This clutchless, 15-speed gearbox, suitable for plug-in hybrid passenger vehicles, delivers a maximum torque of 470Nm and a peak power output of 35kW. It incorporates two electric motors, offering unparalleled adaptability across various driving conditions.
The lightweight transmission, weighing just 99kg, will debut in the Renault Rafale SUV’s plug-in hybrid models.
The DB49 uses HORSE's advanced Power Electronics Box (PEB), an integrated electronics unit engineered at HORSE's Aveiro facility. The PEB enhances the hardware and software, considerably reducing battery charge consumption.
Patrice Haettel, CEO of HORSE, commented, "Launching the DB49 in Seville signifies more than a technological achievement; it underscores HORSE's pivotal role in the global mobility ecosystem. The DB49 is an evolution of the DB35 gearbox, tailored for the Renault Rafale's engine, and it epitomises our commitment to persistent innovation and our drive towards a sustainable and responsive global market."
Javier Bernaldez Garcia, Plant Director at HORSE Seville, added, "Our team in Seville remains at the cutting edge of transmission technology, with the DB49 setting new standards in performance and efficiency. We have invested in our facilities to ensure the plant remains cutting-edge, guaranteeing each unit's quality and durability."
Located in Seville, the HORSE facility employs over 1,000 technicians and engineers. It serves. It is the leading production site for hybrid transmissions and manufactures essential components for the internal combustion engine (ICE) value chain. The plant exports over 60% of its output outside Spain.
Having produced transmissions for over six decades and manufacturing over 32 million units, the Seville plant marked a significant milestone in 2024 by producing 666,670 transmissions, including the pioneering generation of hybrid gearboxes such as the DB49.
The shift towards hybrid gearbox production is one of the most transformative changes in the plant's history. It necessitated the establishment of two new assembly lines and modifying several machining lines.
HORSE Seville has invested in a cutting-edge testing facility to conduct world-class acoustic, vibrational, and functional mechanical and electronic components analyses to maintain high-quality control standards. The plant has also embraced several 'data-centric' processes to improve the accessibility of documentation, testing data, and information on individual units.
