HORSE Powertrain, a leader in innovative and low-emission powertrain systems, has announced a groundbreaking agreement to provide engines for the marine powertrain system of the Hybdor Duotech 200E. This is a significant first for HORSE, as it marks the company’s expansion into marine propulsion systems beyond land vehicles.
The Hybdor Duotech 200E, developed by Brazilian start-up Hybdor Tech, a part of the Espadarte Group, features a revolutionary plug-in hybrid powertrain. Designed for yachts and Class 2 vessels (26-40ft), the system will use HORSE’s 1.3-litre, four-cylinder Turbo Flex Fuel ‘HR13’ engine.
Similar to plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) systems used in land transport, the Hybdor Duotech 200E can operate in both pure combustion and pure electric modes. Additionally, it includes a “boost” mode, which combines combustion and electric power for enhanced continuous performance. The powertrain’s battery can also be charged while in motion through the combustion engine, or it can be charged by plugging into a power outlet. When plugged in, the system can be fully charged in just 90 minutes.
Produced at HORSE’s plant in Curitiba, Brazil, the HR13 engine delivers a peak power output of 163 horsepower (120 kW) and a maximum torque of 250 Nm at 1,600 rpm. The electric motors in the Hybdor Duotech 200E provide an additional 25 horsepower (18 kW) and 60 Nm of torque.
Optimized for both gasoline and ethanol flex fuels, the HR13 engine is tailored for the Brazilian market, where flex-fuel vehicles are common. This makes the Hybdor Duotech 200E one of the first commercial marine powertrains globally to operate with commercially available flex fuels, including pure ethanol.
Revolutionizing Mobility
Matias Giannini, CEO of Horse Powertrain, expressed his excitement: “We aim to revolutionize all forms of mobility, and this is why we are thrilled to announce our first engine for marine use. This collaboration with Hybdor is a pioneering application of our global technology leadership in hybrid and alternative fuels.”
Patrice Haettel, CEO of HORSE Division, added: “We are committed to developing responsible and sustainable mobility solutions, not only for the automotive sector but also beyond. This agreement with Hybdor is our first step into the marine market and aligns perfectly with our broader goals of energy transition. This new PHEV system, powered by our HR13 engine, is a world-first in offering low-emission marine mobility through the use of ethanol.”
Thiago Sielski Marquardt, Chief Technology Officer at Hybdor Tech, emphasized the importance of the partnership: “HORSE was the clear choice for us when creating the Hybdor Duotech 200E. We needed a partner who understood our vision and could deliver a low-emissions combustion engine capable of using the gasoline-ethanol flex fuels prevalent in Brazil. This collaboration between two Paraná State companies is a true example of local innovation making a global impact.”
The introduction of a plug-in hybrid marine powertrain system is expected to extend the range of boats and ships, while simultaneously reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Additionally, it offers a smoother and more comfortable navigation experience by cutting down on vibration and noise.
