When you think “motors,” your mind may drift to roaring Ferraris or humming Teslas. But what if the same cutting-edge technology that powers land vehicles could glide through the water instead? Enter HORSE, a division of Horse Powertrain, galloping eagerly into uncharted maritime waters with Hybdor Tech, a Brazilian start-up. Together, they’re taming the oceans with the world’s first flex-fuel marine plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain—an innovation that could transform how yachts and other Class 2 vessels navigate the waves.
The Heart of the Hybrid: Meet HR13
At the core of this venture lies HORSE’s HR13 engine, a 1.3-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged marvel that’s anything but landlocked. Flexing its muscles at 163PS (120kW) with 250Nm of torque at just 1,600 rpm, this turbo flex engine thrives on both gasoline and ethanol fuels—a nod to Brazil’s love affair with ethanol. Locally produced at HORSE’s Curitiba plant, it’s primed to power Hybdor Tech’s revolutionary Duotech 200E system while running on commercially available ethanol blends or even pure ethanol for greener pastures (well, waters, technically).
But don’t let its biofuel focus fool you: this engine’s marriage with electric motors adds an entirely new dimension. Supplementing with 25PS (18kW) and 60Nm of torque, the electric performance doesn’t just enhance efficiency; it turns the vessel into a near-silent cruiser with reduced vibration, noise, and emissions—a true antidote to chugging diesel motors of yore.
Charging Ahead…Literally
Here’s the cherry on the starboard sundae: the Duotech 200E’s battery system. While it can charge during combustion mode—because multitasking is everything—it also boasts a 90-minute plug-in charge time. That’s faster than some mobile phones these days ! Don’t forget about the innovative “boost mode,” where combustion and electric power unite to deliver a serious power punch. This feature could make horizontal sprints across the bay as exhilarating as a speedboat chase in a Bond movie.
The Green Horizon: Why This Matters
Patrice Haettel, HORSE Division CEO, put it best: “This new PHEV system… is a world-first in its provision of low-emission marine mobility through its use of ethanol” . It’s not just about keeping fish happy, though. By supporting flex-fuel systems and Brazil’s ethanol-heavy market, HORSE ensures its maritime debut doesn’t just float. It soars. Partnering with companies like Hybdor Tech—part of Espadarte Group and nestled in Paraná, Brazil—HORSE exemplifies what happens when tech innovation meets deep local knowledge.
The Bigger Picture
This venture isn’t just about fancy yachts or environmental bragging rights. It’s HORSE’s bid to create a more sustainable, multi-sector presence in powertrain development. With its parent company Horse Powertrain already conquering 17 global plants and five R&D centers, it’s clear the company feels the winds of an energy transition blowing hard and fast . “There is no one-size-fits-all solution to sustainable mobility,” HORSE proclaims, and this approach embodies just that—diversification, innovation, and impact.
A Lasting Wave
In short, HORSE’s marine escapade with Hybdor Tech is more than a business deal—it’s a strategic leap into the future of how we harness hybrid technology for greener, better mobility, on both land and sea. We might just be looking at the day when stories of roaring diesel engines on boats are relegated to the history books. And with 90-minute charge times, flex-fuel-ready engines, and global tech expertise, the stage is set for the Duotech 200E to glide to the forefront of sustainable marine power. So, whether you’re a nautical enthusiast, an environmentalist, or just someone who appreciates cutting-edge tech, this collaboration is truly making waves.
For all we know, the next WhatsApp group chat might not be about carpooling—but boatpooling. You heard it here first.
