HORSE Unveils World-First Flex-Fuel Hybrid Marine Powertrain for Hybdor Duotech 200E
Today, HORSE, a division of Horse Powertrain and a leading innovator of low-emission systems signed an agreement to supply its engines for the Hybdor Duotech 200E’s marine powertrain. This partnership marks a global first for HORSE as the company expands its engine supply beyond land vehicles.
Developed by Brazilian start-up Hybdor Tech, part of the Espadarte Group, the Hybdor Duotech 200E features a pioneering plug-in hybrid powertrain designed for yachts and Class 2 vessels (measuring 26 to 40 feet long). HORSE will provide its 1.3-litre, four-cylinder Turbo Flex Fuel HR13 engine, delivering robust performance with reduced emissions.
Similar to plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) technology for cars, the Hybdor Duotech 200E can operate in both pure combustion and pure electric modes. However, it also introduces a “boost” mode that combines combustion and electric power for enhanced continuous performance. The powertrain’s battery can be recharged while sailing in combustion mode or by plugging into a power source. The PHEV can achieve a full charge in just 90 minutes when plugged in.
Manufactured at HORSE’s facility in Curitiba, the HR13 engine achieves a peak power of 163PS (120W) and a maximum torque of 250Nm at 1,600rpm. The Hybdor Duotech 200E’s electric motors supplement this output with 25PS (18kW) of peak power and 60Nm of torque.
The HR13 engine is optimised for the petrol-ethanol flex fuels prevalent in Brazil, making the Hybdor Duotech 200E one of the world’s first commercial marine powertrains designed to operate with commonly sold flex fuels while supporting pure-ethanol combustion.
Matias Giannini, Chief Executive Officer of Horse Powertrain, said: “Horse Powertrain plans to revolutionise every mobility category, which is why we are incredibly excited to announce our first engine for use in a marine vessel. This new solution with Hybdor is a highly innovative application of our global technology leadership, leveraging our hybrid and alternative fuels expertise.”
Patrice Haettel, Chief Executive Officer of HORSE Division, added: “Our team is committed to developing more responsible and sustainable mobility solutions for automotive and beyond. Our agreement with Hybdor is the first step into the marine market and aligns with our overarching energy transition goals. This new PHEV system, equipped with our HR13 engine produced in Curitiba, is a world-first in its provision of low-emission marine mobility through its use of ethanol.”
Thiago Sielski Marquardt, Chief Technology Officer of Hybdor Tech, remarked: “HORSE was the obvious partner for us as we created our unique Hybdor Duotech 200E. We needed a company that understood our vision and had the expertise to deliver a low-emissions combustion engine that could leverage the petrol-ethanol flex fuels of the Brazilian market. This is a great example of two Paraná State businesses coming together to make a real difference.”
Integrating a plug-in hybrid marine powertrain, the Hybdor Duotech 200E extends sailing range, reduces fuel consumption and emissions, and provides a smoother experience by minimising vibration and noise. As a result, this innovative system represents a significant step forward in sustainable marine mobility.