Horse Powertrain, a joint venture backed by Renault, Geely, and Aramco, is quietly becoming a major player in the internal combustion engine (ICE) world. While many automakers shift toward electric vehicles, Horse is doubling down on high-performance, small-displacement engines – and motorsport is where they’re making waves.
From Fuel Economy to Race Tracks
Founded just 18 months ago, the UK-based company initially focused on efficient powertrains. But its engines are now being adapted for racing, proving ICE still has a place in high-octane competition. The H13 1.3-liter turbo engine, already used by mainstream manufacturers, has been successfully deployed in a Caterham Seven race car, replacing the older Ford Sigma engine with 130 horsepower.
This isn’t just about keeping ICE alive; it’s about where ICE thrives. The market for specialized, high-performance engines remains strong, particularly in motorsport.
Ethanol-Fueled Racing in Brazil
Horse Powertrain is pushing boundaries further. In partnership with Sports and Racing Brazil, they’re co-developing an H13 engine for a new pick-up truck racing category. This engine, running on pure ethanol (E100), delivers around 200 horsepower. The choice of ethanol is significant: Brazil mandates petrolethanol blends in road vehicles since 1976, currently at 25% compared to the UK’s 10%. Using ethanol reduces the well-to-wheel carbon footprint if the feedstock is renewable.
The series will feature standard chassis to ensure fair competition, with events held on both asphalt and dirt tracks. First unveilings are expected this year, with testing leading to competition in 2027.
Global Expansion: From Brazil to the US
Horse isn’t limiting itself to one region. Aurobay Technologies, a Horse division, is supplying 2.0-liter engines for the ARC2 rally car class in the American Rally Association. These engines will be locked with tamper-proof ECUs to ensure compliance with regulations.
The H13 engine’s design includes a unique triangular (Deltashaped) cylinder head, an integrated exhaust manifold, and direct injection optimized for ethanol, using high-pressure six-hole injectors. This compact, lightweight design positions it well for other motorsport applications too.
The company’s success demonstrates that despite the EV transition, there’s a continued demand for specialized ICE technology, particularly in racing where performance and cost-effectiveness matter.
Horse Powertrain’s rapid growth suggests that internal combustion isn’t dead, it’s just evolving. The company’s focus on adaptable, high-performance engines, combined with strategic partnerships in key motorsport markets, ensures it will remain a relevant player in the automotive industry for years to come.
