New Renault Duster
With focus on local sourcing and manufacturing, Horse Powertrain will help Renault and Nissan to offer their upcoming hybrid models at a competitive price point and reduce dependency on imports
Globally, hybrid models are witnessing greater acceptance from buyers looking for greener mobility options. With rising demand for hybrid cars, OEMs are realigning their strategies to suit evolving consumer preferences. A similar trend can be seen in India as well, where hybrids are gaining traction. To lend its expertise in this space, Renault-Geely-owned Horse Powertrain has plans to start operations in India with an investment of $370 million (approx. Rs 3,500 crore).
Hybrid powertrains for Duster, Bridger
Renault Duster could be the first model in India to use a hybrid powertrain manufactured by Horse Powertrain. Duster is currently available with a 1.0-litre turbo petrol and a 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine option. The E-Tech 160 1.8-litre strong hybrid powertrain has been announced for India. It is planned to be introduced around Diwali 2026.
Horse Powertrains’ P2 hybrid module that reduces the front overhang by 150 mm, making it easier to package hybrid systems into vehicles originally designed for ICE powertrains.
This hybrid system for Duster could come from Horse Powertrain. With expertise from Renault and Geely, Horse Powertrain excels in hybrid powertrains including plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and range-extended electric vehicles (EREV). Horse Powertrain also has specialization in installing hybrid systems in existing battery-electric vehicles without requiring major modifications.
Last year, Horse Powertrain had unveiled its ‘Future Hybrid System’ that integrates an ICE engine, electric motor, electronic power systems and other parts in a 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 can be used with Duster’s upcoming strong hybrid powertrain that will have a 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine.
Horse Powertrain has developed a compact hybrid powertrain that integrates the engine, gearbox and electric motors into an EV-ready architecture
Horse Powertrain is also working on a three-cylinder version of its hybrid system. This could be used with the upcoming Renault Bridger. Multiple variations of this hybrid system are possible, allowing seamless integration with vehicles of various sizes. Also, both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations are supported.
Another benefit is that Horse Powertrain’s hybrid setup supports various fuel options such as pure petrol, E85, E100 and even synthetic fuels. This makes it even more relevant from India’s perspective, where use of E85 and E100 will become more widespread in the future.
Operations subject to investment approval
As per reports, Horse Powertrain has lined up investment of $370 million to power its operations in India. These investments will be made in a phased manner. In addition to supplying strong hybrid powertrains to upcoming Renault and Nissan cars, Horse Powertrain can also assist other OEMs with their hybrid requirements. At a later stage, Horse Powertrain could make India a hub for exports of its hybrid systems.
In its statement, Horse Powertrain has said that they have submitted their investment application to Indian authorities. Multiple reports indicate that the investment proposal could be approved, since foreign investment rules were recently relaxed for neighbouring 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, whereas Saudi Aramco holds 10%.
Source