Horse Powertrain reveals methanol REEV engine and generator

London, United Kingdom- HORSE Powertrain Limited., has unveiled the HORSE D20 Methanol, a compact range-extender powertrain developed for range-extended electric vehicles. First presented at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, the system combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, motor and power electronics, producing up to 105 kW while weighing 170 kg.

Designed to run on 100% methanol, the engine uses a 240 mJ high-energy ignition system to support ultra-lean combustion and cold starts at temperatures as low as -35°C. HORSE states that its NOx emissions comply with China’s CN6b requirements and Euro 7 limits.

The powertrain features a crankshaft-mounted yokeless axial-flux motor that is 46% shorter and delivers 63% higher power density than a comparable radial-flux motor. It also achieves electrical efficiency of 96.4%.

In laboratory testing, the system recorded a 47% fuel-to-energy conversion rate. According to HORSE, around 19.6 litres of methanol can generate enough electricity to fully recharge a 40 kWh EV battery.

Mr. Fortune Zhao, CTO of Horse Powertrain, said, “The HORSE D20 Methanol is one of our boldest statements of intent so far. Along with reflecting our commitment to alternative fuels via its central methanol engine and offering a flexible mobility solution as a range extender powertrain, the HORSE D20 Methanol is a staging ground for a range of cutting-edge technologies to deliver a powertrain of unparalleled compactness and efficiency. This can be seen in our use of an axial flux motor to achieve the necessary width and volumetric power density for the unit, marking one of the first uses of the technology in a mass-market automotive powertrain.”

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