HORSE Reveals Next-Gen Range Extenders For Enhanced Vehicle Efficiency

Published: Thursday, May 30, 2024, 18:03 [IST]

HORSE, a prominent name in low-emissions powertrain systems, has unveiled its latest Range Extender technology for passenger and light commercial vehicles. This new powertrain offers a 200km pure-electric range, with an additional 600km provided by the engine, totalling over 800km. This innovation allows drivers to travel long distances while accessing low-emission zones easily.

The high-voltage battery in this system is significantly smaller—over 50% less—than those found in equivalent electric vehicles (EVs). This reduction translates to cost savings, decreased weight, and less strain on the critical mineral supply chain. The engine functions as an onboard power source, powering the battery through an electric generator that outputs 50kW for passenger vehicles and 80kW for light commercial vehicles.

Patrice Haettel, CEO at HORSE, stated: "Regional sales profiles globally indicate the necessity for diverse power generation solutions to meet consumer demands and technical requirements. We are developing next-generation hybrids, range extenders, and synthetic and hydrogen-fuelled power solutions."

The Range Extender technology ensures the engine operates within a high-efficiency window, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Unlike traditional plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), the combustion engine in this system does not directly drive the vehicle’s wheels. When the battery charge is sufficient, the engine automatically turns off.

The vehicle’s battery can be charged similarly to an EV using public chargers or domestic power supplies. When used with low-carbon fuels, the overall environmental footprint of a vehicle powered by a range extender is comparable to that of a long-range EV.

This technology can be integrated into any existing vehicle architecture, whether designed for EVs or traditional combustion engines. The smaller battery size offers greater packaging flexibility, enhancing vehicle design efficiency.

HORSE was established to deliver highly efficient, low-emission engines and technologies to meet global power generation needs. The company operates eight production plants across seven countries and three R&D centres, producing 3.2 million units annually for customers worldwide.

Company Overview

HORSE is headquartered in Madrid, Spain, and employs over 9,000 people across seven countries. The company’s manufacturing plants are located in Argentina (Córdoba), Brazil (Curitiba), Chile (Los Andes), Portugal (Aveiro), Romania (Bucharest, Mioveni, Titu), Spain (Seville, Valladolid), and Turkey (Bursa) in partnership with Oyak.

For further information, contact Alvaro Fernandez, Global External Communications Director at +34 699068082 or via email at [email protected].