Transform Vehicle Efficiency: HORSE and WEG Unveil Innovative Range Extender Powertrain Collaboration
HORSE, a global leader in innovative and low-emission powertrain systems, has forged a groundbreaking Research & Development partnership with WEG, a leading Brazilian electronics manufacturer, focusing on HORSE’s new Range Extender powertrain. This marks HORSE’s first commercial partnership as a division of HORSE Powertrain Ltd.
Under this agreement, HORSE and WEG will collaboratively develop a market-leading Range Extender powertrain for light commercial and heavy-duty vehicles. WEG will provide essential components for the technology.
Upon completing the R&D study, HORSE will assume ownership and supply the system to customers.
HORSE will manage the electronic architecture of the Range Extender, integrating components within existing requirements and supplying the 1.0-litre ‘HR10’ engine and Control Module. WEG will deliver the electric generators, e-motors, and electrical inverters.
Julien Faure, Chief Technology Officer at HORSE, stated, “HORSE is dedicated to delivering decarbonisation technologies worldwide, and this partnership with WEG will democratise the Range Extender powertrain solution. Collaborating with a world-class electrical technology provider like WEG underscores our capability to create exceptional powertrain solutions tailored to diverse global needs and technical requirements.”
The Range Extender consists of six key modules:
1. Combustion Engine: Generates mechanical energy to power the electric generator.
2. Electric Generator: Converts mechanical energy from the engine into electric charge for the battery.
3. Electric Inverter: Converts direct current into alternating current, enabling communication between electronic components.
4. Electronic Control Unit: Issues real-time instructions for vehicle components and electronics.
5. E-Motor: Converts charge from the battery into mechanical traction for vehicle propulsion and provides regenerative braking functionality.
6. Battery: Stores the electrical energy from the electric generator and e-motor.
This partnership with WEG will give HORSE preferential access to these critical components for its fully integrated Range Extender units, ensuring a continuous supply for customers. Designed for both light commercial and heavy-duty vehicles, the Range Extender features an optimised battery pack and HORSE’s 85kW 1.0-litre, three-cylinder ‘HR10’ engine. The HR10 engine can use flex fuels, making the Range Extender’s total emissions profile comparable to a fully electric vehicle.
The Range Extender engine operates consistently in its most efficient range, minimising fuel consumption and emissions.