HORSE is a London-based powertrain company that was started by the Renault Group and Geely Group back in 2024. Its aim? To supply the industry, not just its initial creators, with innovative and cutting-edge powertrains. So recently it was announced that HORSE had developed a new powertrain called the HORSE B20 that is 100% waterproof at depths of up to 1.1 metres.
That is quite incredible and the fact that it can be applied to any number of applications, including full ICE, Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid and REEV, is an added bonus. The engine itself is a 2.0-litre turbo petrol motor with power capabilities of between 140kW and 185kW, as well as torque of between 300Nm and 380Nm.
According to HORSE, the engine showcases several innovations, “These include high-pressure injectors and high-tumble intake ports, which promote superior air-fuel mixing and more efficient combustion. Additionally, the engine features pistons designed to make full use of the “squish” effect to promote air-fuel mixing at the peak of the compression cycle – this enables the spark plug to ignite a cleaner and faster combustion event.”
Probably the most obvious useful application for the Mzansi market would be if installed into a REEV bakkie, since our bakkies do travel through some of the most challenging surfaces like wet gravel, wetlands, flooded urban areas etc.