With a focus on local sourcing and manufacturing, the Horse powertrain will help Renault and Nissan offer their upcoming hybrid models at a competitive price and reduce dependence on imports.
Globally, hybrid models are gaining greater acceptance from buyers looking for green mobility options. With the increasing demand for hybrid cars, OEMs are reimagining their strategies to suit the changing preferences of consumers. A similar trend can be seen in India also, where the hybrid trend is increasing. To provide our expertise in this field, Renault-Geely proprietary horsepower powertrain Plans to launch operations in India with Investment of $370 million (about Rs 3,500 crore).
Hybrid powertrain for Duster, Bridger
The Renault Duster could be India’s first model to use a hybrid powertrain manufactured by Horse Powertrain. The Duster is currently available with 1.0-litre turbo petrol and 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine options. The E-Tech 160 1.8-litre strong hybrid powertrain has been announced for India. It is planned to be introduced around Diwali 2026.
This hybrid system for the Duster could come from the same powertrain. With the expertise of Renault and Geely, Horse Powertrain excels in hybrid powertrains, including plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and range-extended electric vehicles (EREVs). Horse powertrain is also Specializing in installing hybrid systems into existing battery-electric vehicles Without the need for major modifications.
Last year, Horse Powertrain unveiled its ‘Future Hybrid System’ which integrates an ICE engine, electric motor, electronic power system and other parts into one compact package. Available in dual motor and single motor configurations, both hybrid versions can accommodate a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine. The same architecture could be used with the upcoming strong hybrid powertrain of the Duster which will have a 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine.
Horse Powertrain is also working on a three-cylinder version of its hybrid system. It can be used with the upcoming Renault Bridger. Many variations of this hybrid system are possible, allowing seamless integration with vehicles of different sizes. Also, both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations are supported.
The second advantage is the hybrid setup of the horse powertrain Supports various fuel options Like pure petrol, E85, E100 and even synthetic fuels. This makes it even more relevant from the perspective of India, where the use of E85 and E100 will become more widespread in the future.
The operation is subject to investment approval
According to reports, Horse Powertrain has invested $370 million to strengthen its operations in India. This investment will be done in a phased manner. In addition to supplying robust hybrid powertrains for upcoming Renault and Nissan cars, Horse Powertrain can also assist other OEMs with their hybrid requirements. At a later stage, Horse Powertrain may make India a hub for exports of its hybrid systems.
Horse Powertrain said in its statement that it has submitted its investment application to the Indian authorities. Several reports indicate that Investment proposal may get approvalSince recently foreign investment rules were relaxed for neighboring countries. However, with Geely’s 45% stake in Horse Powertrain and the government’s extra caution towards Chinese investment, nothing can be said with complete certainty. Renault also has a 45% stake in Horse Powertrain, while Saudi Aramco holds a 10% stake.