Horse Powertrain has introduced its new HORSE D20 Methanol range-extended electric vehicle powertrain. The unit was unveiled on July 14, 2026, in London, UK.
The system uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that runs on 100 percent methanol. It acts as a reserve power source to recharge EV batteries.
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First shown at the Beijing Auto Show 2026, the 170kg unit produces up to 105kW. It integrates power electronics, an electric generator, and the engine.
Key Technical Features
The engine employs a 240mJ high-energy ignition setup. This allows ultra-lean combustion and pure-methanol cold starts at temperatures as low as -35°C.
The unit incorporates an axial flux motor mounted directly on the crankshaft. This yokeless design features two rotors surrounding a single stator.
Compared to standard radial flux motors, the design reduces engine length by 46 percent.
Volumetric power density increases by 63 percent, and electrical efficiency reaches 96.4 percent through embedded silicon carbide power modules.
Lab testing shows a 47 percent fuel-to-energy conversion ratio. The system outputs 1kWh of electrical energy for every ~2.1kWh of methanol consumed.
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It requires 19.6 liters of fuel to fully recharge a 40kWh battery.
The powertrain meets China's CN6b emissions threshold of 35mg/kWh for NOx. This also places it within the Euro 7 limit of 60mg/km.
Fortune Zhao, CTO of Horse Powertrain, said the D20 Methanol is one of the company's boldest statements of intent.
He noted it reflects commitment to alternative fuels and offers a flexible mobility solution as a range extender.
Zhao highlighted the use of an axial flux motor as one of the first applications in a mass-market automotive powertrain.
Horse Powertrain is headquartered in London. It operates 18 manufacturing facilities and five R&D centers across Europe, China, and South America.
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The company supports 25 automotive clients including Renault Group, Geely Auto, Volvo Cars, Proton, Nissan, and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.
