Horse Powertrain unveils B20 off-road hybrid engine

Horse Powertrain, a joint venture between Renault and Geely, has unveiled the B20, a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine specifically designed for electrified architectures and demanding off-road conditions.

The B20 is engineered to support various hybrid configurations, including conventional hybrids (HEV), plug-in hybrids (PHEV), and range-extended electric vehicles (REEV). It utilizes the Miller cycle with direct injection, achieving a thermal efficiency of up to 48.8%. Power outputs range from approximately 188 to 252 hp, with torque between 300 and 380 Nm.

A standout feature is its IPX8 certification for water immersion, allowing the engine to operate while submerged in up to 1.1 meters of water. To achieve this, the powertrain incorporates specialized seals, torsional vibration dampers, and a dedicated sealing between the engine and gearbox. Additionally, the electrical components and sensors are sealed to the same IPX8 standard, and the system includes a dual cooling circuit to manage extreme thermal dissipation requirements during heavy-duty use.