Two 13-liter engines compatible with renewable diesel and gas fuel, including future hydrogen applications, have been introduced to the market. Both are based on Volvo Trucks‘ latest in-house-developed engine platform.

The combustion engine remains an important part of the company’s driveline strategy, and Volvo says its new engine range is designed to deliver increased power, improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions and noise levels, and enhanced driveability. The engine platform is ready for alternative fuels such as biodiesel/B100, HVO, biogas/bio-LNG and green hydrogen.

The D13 engine will offer 380-560hp of power and 1,800-2,900Nm of torque. It can reportedly deliver up to 4% lower fuel consumption than the D13 eSCR engine it replaces. This is based on simulations of a 500hp Volvo FH 42 T with a GCW of 35 metric tons.

The second 13-liter engine, the G13, offers 420-500hp and 2,400-2,800Nm of torque.

“Not only are these all-new engines our most fuel-efficient powertrains ever, but they will also take our combustion engine into the future,” said Jan Hjelmgren, head of product management at Volvo Trucks. “The flexibility and readiness for all existing diesel and gas fuels – but also future hydrogen applications – mean that we can offer efficient trucks with the possibility of net zero emissions to all our customers globally.”

According to Volvo, the new platform comes with refined engine brake functionality for increased driveability, along with new cylinder and turbo designs and an updated version of the company’s I-Shift transmission. The diesel and gas versions will both reportedly offer significantly higher levels of torque.

Many variants of the diesel version of the new engine are compatible with Volvo Trucks’ I-Roll with engine stop/start functionality, enabling drivers to save fuel by turning off the engine and rolling downhill.

In related news, Renault introduces LPG bi-fuel Clio that delivers up to 1,450km range

As vehicle development becomes increasingly integrated across propulsion, software, testing and design, a new industry event focused on chassis and powertrain engineering will launch this October as part of Vehicle Tech Week North America 2026.

The Advanced Chassis & Powertrain Showcase will debut alongside three established exhibitions within a newly unified event framework designed to reflect how modern vehicles are engineered today.

Taking place October 27-29, 2026, at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace in Novi, Michigan, Vehicle Tech Week North America will bring together four co-located exhibitions covering the full vehicle development lifecycle:

• Intelligent Vehicle Expo (previously known as Autonomous Vehicle Tech Expo)
• Advanced Chassis & Powertrain Showcase (new launch)
• Automotive Design & In-Cabin Expo (previously known as Automotive Interiors Expo)
• Automotive Testing Expo (the world’s largest and most established event for automotive testing, validation and quality engineering)

The event is expected to attract thousands of OEM engineers, Tier 1 suppliers and technology leaders, creating a single destination for cross-functional collaboration and technical insight.

About Vehicle Tech Week North America 2026

Vehicle Tech Week North America is a new multi-event platform designed to reflect the full complexity of modern vehicle development. By bringing together four co-located exhibitions in one unified framework, the event connects the technologies, teams and disciplines shaping the future of mobility.

From propulsion systems and software-defined vehicles to testing, validation and in-cabin experience, the event provides a comprehensive view of the vehicle ecosystem. Hosted in Novi, Michigan, a region with deep roots in automotive engineering, the event is positioned as a central meeting point for innovation across North America.

A new platform for chassis and powertrain innovation

The Advanced Chassis & Powertrain Showcase has been developed in response to the growing complexity of propulsion and platform engineering. OEMs are now managing internal combustion, hybrid and battery-electric programs in parallel, often across shared vehicle architectures, introducing new challenges around efficiency, cost, thermal management and vehicle dynamics.

Rather than focusing on individual components, the showcase will highlight system-level approaches to vehicle performance and integration. Key technology areas include:

• Battery systems and energy storage
• Electric drivetrains and e‑axles
• Power electronics
• Thermal management
• Braking and suspension systems
• Vehicle dynamics and control
• Simulation and validation technologies

“Chassis and powertrain technologies are at the center of some of the industry’s most complex engineering decisions,” said Peter Massey, commercial director at Vehicle Tech Week organizer UKi Media & Events. “This new showcase creates a dedicated platform for engineers and suppliers to explore how those challenges are being solved at a system level, and how those solutions translate into real-world performance.”

Repositioned, market‑leading events in a single framework

Alongside the launch of the new chassis and powertrain showcase, two established events have evolved to reflect their expanding roles within the vehicle ecosystem.

Intelligent Vehicle Expo highlights the growing impact of software, AI and connected systems across all areas of the vehicle, while Automotive Design & In-Cabin Expo reflects the increasing importance of interior architecture, HMI and user experience.

Together with Automotive Testing Expo, the industry’s leading event for validation, testing and quality engineering, Vehicle Tech Week North America creates a unified environment where traditionally separate disciplines converge.

“Vehicle Tech Week North America reflects how vehicles are engineered today,” added Massey. “It brings together advanced technologies, specialist expertise and real-world application into one connected experience, accelerating collaboration across the entire vehicle development process.”

For more information, and to exhibit or register, visit: https://www.vehicletechweek-northamerica.com/.

For speaker enquiries, please contact Marc LeDuc, senior conference content producer NA, UKi Media & Events (marc.leduc@ukimediaevents.com).

Nissan Motor has announced its long‑term vision: Mobility Intelligence for Everyday Life, a plan to integrate mobility intelligence into everyday life through Nissan’s focus on AI-defined vehicles (AIDV), offering a choice of electrification technologies to meet diverse customer and market needs.

Ivan Espinosa, president and CEO, said, “This is the right moment to articulate Nissan‘s long‑term vision as we move beyond the Re:Nissan recovery plan and set a clear path for the future. Our vision defines where Nissan is headed, with customer experience as our guiding priority. By advancing mobility intelligence, we will deliver intuitive, advanced and reliable products and technologies that offer outstanding value and enrich how mobility is experienced.”

At the core of the strategy is Nissan AIDV, combining Nissan AI Drive and Nissan AI Partner technologies. The company says this will integrate AI with vehicle control and safety systems, building on existing advanced driver assistance technology. Nissan aims to deploy AI Drive across 90% of its line-up over the long term.

The first model expected to reflect this approach is the latest Nissan Elgrand, due in summer 2026, which will introduce next-generation ProPilot with end-to-end autonomous technologies by the end of the 2027 financial year.

Christian Meunier, chairman of Nissan Americas, added, “Across the Americas, our focus on execution is making the region a key contributor to Nissan’s turnaround, driven by both revenue growth and disciplined cost reduction. We delivered significant year-over-year increases in US retail share, making Nissan the fastest-growing mainstream brand since August 2025. We’re also seeing solid progress in Canada and continued growth in Mexico, where we have maintained the #1 position for 18 consecutive years – proof that getting the fundamentals right matters. Our balance of strong execution today and smart, impactful investments in the future will strengthen our business and drive sustainable growth.”

Electrification

Alongside autonomy development, Nissan is expanding electrification through its e-Power hybrid system and a wider mix of powertrains, including hybrid, plug-in hybrid and range extender systems developed through partnerships. A new hybrid system for frame-based vehicles is also planned.

This broader offer includes development of a new hybrid electric vehicle system (HEV) for future frame‑based vehicles, serving customers requiring greater capability and long‑range confidence. Nissan says it will complete the spectrum of customer choice by offering plug‑in hybrid and range‑extender hybrid solutions through partnerships.

Streamlined product portfolio

The company will streamline its model line-up from 56 to 45 models, exiting low-performing models and reallocating reinvestment to growth areas. At the same time, Nissan says it will expand powertrain options for each model, to give customers more choice, increase volume per model and strengthen the company’s business foundation.

Key upcoming models include the Rogue and X-Trail Hybrid e-Power, the Xterra for North America, the Juke EV for Europe, and the Skyline for Japan. Infiniti will also be expanded with new and refreshed models, including an all-new QX65 SUV due in 2027.

Nissan said its industrial strategy will shift toward architecture-led development based on shared platforms and software, aiming to improve development speed, cost efficiency and scalability.

Espinosa concluded, “As we continue on our path to recovery, it is essential that Nissan seizes the opportunities provided by AI technologies, by electrification and the innovation embedded in our latest products to drive market growth and focus relentlessly on serving the customer.”

In related news, Nissan launches electric Juke

Porsche has revealed the 911 GT3 S/C, featuring a lightweight short-ratio 6-speed manual sports transmission.

The vehicle combines the lightweight design of the 911 S/T with the naturally aspirated 4.0-liter boxer engine of the 911 GT3, producing 375kW (510ps) and 450Nm of torque. It features the distinctive wings and doors of the 911 S/T.

The 911 GT3 S/C is the only open-top variant in the current 911 range that is designed as a pure two-seater – reminiscent of the 911 Speedster from 2019.

Frank Moser, head of the 911 and 718 model series, said, “The emotive powertrain of the 911 GT3 comes into its own even more emphatically when driving with the roof down on winding country roads. This is particularly down to managing to keep the weight of the 911 GT3 S/C down to just 1,497kg, despite the fully automatic soft top. That is only about 30kg more than the 991-generation 911 Speedster.”

Lightweight design

The hood, wings and doors are made of carbon fiber. The carbon-fiber anti-roll bars and shear plate are also carried over from the fixed-head 911 S/T. The brakes and wheels also follow the S/T lightweight formula: the PCCB braking system, which is more than 20kg lighter than the cast-iron brakes, is fitted as standard. The center-lock wheels, measuring 20in in diameter on the front axle and 21in at the rear, also from the 911 S/T, are made of lightweight magnesium. This saves around 9kg of rotating mass. Magnesium is also used in the fully automatic cabriolet roof of the 911 GT3 S/C. A compact, lightweight 40Ah lithium-ion battery saves around 4kg compared with a conventional battery.

High-revving, naturally aspirated engine producing 510ps

The naturally aspirated 4.0-liter engine is designed to comply with the latest emissions standards and is equipped with two particulate filters and four catalytic converters.

The cylinder heads have been revised compared with the previous-generation 911 GT3, and the more aggressive camshafts carried over from the 911 GT3 RS ensure more responsive power delivery in the upper rev range. The powertrain also features flow-optimized individual throttle bodies and optimized oil coolers. The flat-six engine produces 375kW (510ps). The 6-speed GT manual transmission features a sporty short final-drive ratio that matches that of the 911 S/T and the 911 GT3. The 911 GT3 S/C accelerates from 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 313km/h.

“We have already learned with the 911 Speedster and the 718 Spyder RS just how well our high-revving naturally aspirated engine, a particularly dynamic chassis setup and thorough lightweight construction combine to create a true driver’s car without a roof,” commented Andreas Preuninger, Porsche‘s head of GT cars. “For the first time, the 911 GT3 S/C uses the double-wishbone front axle on an open-top 911. Combined with the particularly high-grip sports tires and low weight, the car offers driving pleasure on winding roads that was previously virtually unheard of in an open-top car.” The chassis setup of the new 911 GT3 S/C mirrors that of the 911 GT3 with touring package. As with all 911 GT3 models, 255/35 ZR 20 front and 315/30 ZR 21 rear tires are fitted as standard.

In related news, Ariel unveils hand-built, motorsport‑spec Atom 4RR

Volvo Trucks has begun on-road testing of heavy trucks powered by hydrogen combustion engines en route to the planned commercial launch of its hydrogen solution by 2030.

The hydrogen-powered trucks use high-pressure, direct injection (HPDI) technology, which the company says improves energy efficiency, reduces fuel consumption and increases engine power compared with conventional hydrogen combustion engines. HPDI works by injecting a small amount of ignition fuel at high pressure to enable compression ignition before hydrogen is added. Volvo already uses this technology in its gas-powered trucks, with over 10,000 units sold worldwide.

The hydrogen engine technology is derived from its diesel powertrain, delivering “diesel-like performance” while substantially cutting CO₂ emissions, the auto maker said.

“On-road testing is an important milestone for our hydrogen combustion engine trucks. I feel confident that they will be the best in the industry if you look at fuel efficiency, power, torque and drivability,” said Jan Hjelmgren, head of product management at Volvo Trucks. “Customers will be able to operate them just like diesel trucks. Our experience with HPDI technology in more than 10,000 gas-powered trucks is strong proof of its performance.”

Hydrogen combustion engine trucks will be especially suitable over longer distances and in regions where there is limited charging infrastructure or time for the recharging of battery-electric trucks.

Volvo trucks with combustion engines powered by green hydrogen have the potential to deliver net-zero CO₂ well-to-wheel when using renewable HVO as ignition fuel. They are categorized as Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV) under the agreed EU CO₂ emission standards.

The hydrogen-powered combustion engine trucks will complement the company’s offering of other alternatives, such as battery electric trucks, fuel cell electric trucks and trucks that run on renewable fuels, like biogas and HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil).

“We see great potential for hydrogen combustion engine trucks and they will have a role to play in the transformation to zero-emission transport,” said Hjelmgren. “Several technologies will be needed to decarbonize. As a global truck manufacturer we offer a variety of decarbonization solutions and help our customers choose the best alternative based on transport assignment, available infrastructure and green energy prices.”

Related news, Hydrogen fuel cell trucks help decarbonize freight in Uruguay

To mark its 25 year anniversary, the Ariel Motor Company has launched a 525bhp version of its Atom sports car. The track-oriented but roadgoing Ariel Atom 4RR will feature a bespoke Honda engine and will be “the most powerful and exclusive Atom ever created”, the UK manufacturer said.

The 4RR will feature a hand‑built, motorsport‑spec engine producing 525bhp and revving to 8,200rpm and will be the fastest Atom yet, capable of 0-62mph in 2.4 seconds and hitting 100mph in just 5.1 seconds.

The most powerful Atom

Despite its focus on ultimate circuit performance, the 4RR remains a road‑legal vehicle. Each 4RR will be uniquely specified and built to order with buyers invited to Ariel’s factory in Crewkerne in the southwest of the UK to specify and discuss their vehicle with the engineers and technicians responsible for constructing their car.

Simon Saunders, founder of Ariel Motor Company, said, “The Atom 4RR is the most focused vehicle we’ve ever built – a car that captures everything we’ve learned over 25 years of pure driver‑focused engineering. It is the fastest and most powerful Atom to date, yet it stays true to our founding principles of lightweight, minimalism and delivering very serious fun. It is the most direct connection between car, driver, and track or road, that we have ever made.”

Bespoke motorsport‑spec engine

At the heart of the Atom 4RR sits a bespoke 2.0L four-cylinder Honda K20C Type R that is hand-built in 100 hours. However, almost every significant internal and external component has been replaced, upgraded or re‑engineered to motorsport specification.

Henry Siebert-Saunders, managing director at Ariel Motor Company, said, “The 4RR’s engine is built by hand taking more than 100 hours with the objective of delivering intense performance right at the pinnacle of track driving while remaining controlled and confidence-inspiring on road.”

Internally, the engine is comprehensively uprated with closed deck sleeves, bespoke forged pistons and connecting rods, revised cylinder head and port geometry, bespoke camshafts and alloy valve set with uprated springs and guides. All rotating components are measured, fully weight‑matched and dynamically balanced.

With circuit running a primary focus, the 4RR engine features a race‑spec gated oiling system and a high‑flow oil pump, ensuring consistent lubrication under prolonged high engine loads and cornering. Performance and durability are further enhanced by a competition‑grade head gasket with reinforced fire‑ring sealing and a race-spec cylinder‑head stud kit designed to withstand extreme cylinder pressures.

A larger turbocharger peaks at 1.7 bar boost, while a high-pressure fuel system and 1,400cc fuel injectors deliver immense mid‑range torque and a ferocious top‑end – maintaining the consistency and resilience required for circuit use. The 4RR features three cockpit-adjustable engine maps with different boost levels: Map 1 – 400bhp/380Nm; Map 2 – 500bhp/450Nm;  Map 3 – 525bhp/550Nm. Each hand-built engine is run-in and tested on a dyno before final calibration and power tests. An individual dyno graph will accompany each bespoke Atom 4RR engine.

A new carbon air inlet system, with remote air filter assembly, and a new full titanium exhaust and silencer system will be fitted to the Atom 4RR, with power delivered through a Quaife six-speed sequential gearbox with lightweight drive discs, motorsport differential and pneumatic paddle shift, ensuring traction and consistency at all times. Clutchless up and down shifts can be made with auto-blip on downshifts and the lightweight clutch only used for initial start.

Motorsport‑optimized and aero‑led performance 

The 4RR features a fully bronze-welded motorsport chassis with adjustable Öhlins dampers, aluminum uprights and chromoly wishbones for precise handling. Braking comes from 310mm AP Racing discs with four-piston calipers and race-spec pads, paired with in-cockpit adjustable ABS for consistent, high-performance stopping under all conditions.

Ariel has designed the 4RR’s aerodynamic package to maximize downforce while minimizing drag, delivering exceptional cornering speed and high-speed stability. Redesigned carbon-fiber side pods improve cooling for the engine and gearbox, supporting higher power and extended track sessions. Lightweight carbon-fiber bodywork, mudguards and aerofoils further reduce overall weight.

The Atom 4RR rides on forged wheels – 7Jx16 at the front and 9Jx17 at the rear – fitted with road-legal Yokohama A052 tires in 195/50R16 and 255/40R17 sizes.

Siebert‑Saunders said, “The Atom 4RR is the most uncompromising car we’ve ever created. Every component, every weld, and every element of its engineering is focused on delivering ultimate track performance at the highest level. Its performance capability demands respect while rewarding drivers with an intensity and precision that few other cars can match.”

Related news, Porsche 911 M64 cylinder head kit from Swindon Powertrain passes 100 units sold

Swindon Powertrain has been appointed official engine partner to Walkinshaw TWG Racing, the homologation team for Toyota’s entry into the 2026 Repco Supercars Championship, signifying the next step in the partnership. The company is developing and supplying key components for the GEN3 Toyota GR Supra, with final assembly and servicing carried out by Walkinshaw TWG Racing. The five-year program, first announced a year ago, is expected to place at least five Toyota-powered cars on the grid in 2026.

Close collaboration

Swindon Powertrain has been working in close collaboration with homologation partner Walkinshaw TWG Racing to lead the development, simulation and production of development engines and key parts such as the crank train. Final assembly and ongoing servicing of the race engines will be undertaken by Walkinshaw TWG Racing at its facility in Clayton, Victoria.

Toyota’s all-aluminium, quad-cam 2UR-GSE V8, known for smooth performance in vehicles like the Lexus LC500, has been adapted to a 5.2L version for the Supercars series, which requires engines between 5.0–5.7L. “The engine’s architecture, such as its square 94×94 (bore and stroke), offers a great base for a competitive and durable power unit to achieve 600bhp,” said Swindon Powertrain’s managing director, Raphaël Caillé.

Balancing durability, cost and performance

Key to the project is balancing durability, performance and cost attributes. “The Supercars calendar, including supporting the Australian F1 Grand Prix in Melbourne, sees over 12,000km of track running – that’s around five times the mileage of the 30-round British Touring Car Championship and harsher when you consider events such as the Bathurst 1000 with its 1.19-mile straight,” added Caillé.

To balance durability and strict cost targets, Swindon Powertrain focused on evolving the cranktrain, valvetrain and combustion systems. The strength of Toyota’s production engines allowed cost-effective original equipment (OE) parts—such as the cylinder head, block, main caps, timing chain and followers—to be retained. The 2026 unit also features hydraulic variable valve timing (VVT) and a 3D-printed inlet tract, a technology previously used on Swindon Powertrain’s BTCC-winning engines.

The challenge

With Swindon Powertrain’s ISO 9001-certified facilities located in the UK and France, its engineering team – headed by technical director Sylvain Rubio– worked closely with the project partners. “It’s been a fantastic collaboration: the time zone difference enabled us to work around the clock, in effect,” added Caillé. “However, we don’t underestimate the challenge. Supercars is a competitive championship with established engine producers with experience of the GEN3 regulations. We respect the job they are doing and now it’s up to us to learn, develop and bring our best efforts to the track. We won’t be satisfied until we start winning!”

“It’s fantastic to be partnering with Swindon Powertrain as we bring the Toyota Australia Supercars project to life,” added Carl Faux, Walkinshaw TWG Racing team principal.

Faux continued, “There’s been a mountain of work and development undertaken to ensure the 2UR-GSE is Supercars ready, and importantly, meets all the regulations of the category that are so strictly enforced. To be able to have the Swindon Powertrain expertise and production capabilities has been great.”

In related news, ZF and BMW forge long-term partnership to advance efficient drive systems

Honda has held an event in Japan to officially launch its works partnership with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team that will see it return to the FIA Formula One World Championship in the 2026 season as a power unit supplier.

New challenges in the new era for F1

This season, Formula 1 will introduce major regulatory changes for chassis and power units – electrical output from the motor and battery will increase to approximately three times current levels and the use of advanced sustainable fuel will be mandated. And F1’s cost cap regulations require power unit manufacturers to maximize performance while operating within restricted development resources.

Honda sees Formula 1 as a platform for technological challenge and innovation – it developed the RA626H power unit for the 2026 season through the Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), and machines powered by the RA626H will bear the updated H mark with a refreshed design.

Honda will apply technologies and expertise gained through HRC across Formula 1 and other motorsport activities to develop HRC-spec production models with enhanced driving performance, strengthening the link between its motorsport programs and its broader automobile business.

Applications and contributions of F1 technologies to the future of mobility

The technologies refined in F1 – such as for high-efficiency combustion and thermal management; those in the area of high rotational speed, including high-output motors and large-sized turbo chargers; and sustainable fuel technologies – are being applied not only to next-generation HEV and EV models, but also to Honda products that enhance mobility in the skies, such as eVTOL and aircraft engines.

Expertise on sustainable fuels has already been applied to sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) and fuels to power eVTOLs, which are currently being studied. Technologies for high-speed rotating components, such as turbos and motors, have been leveraged for aircraft engines and F1 PUs and are being further advanced through real-world applications.

Honda will use F1 technologies as a starting point to further facilitate technological innovation for a wide range of mobility for land, sea, skies and outer space, and “contribute to the advancement of mobility products and services and realization of a sustainable society,” the company said.

Stefano Domenicali, president and CEO of Formula 1, said, “This is an exciting moment for the sport of F1, as Honda and the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team join together to fight for the biggest prize of F1.

“The exciting next generation of regulations for 2026 is one of the factors that has drawn Honda back to the sport. Those regulations will see both the chassis and PUs updated, in the biggest overhaul in the sport’s history. There will be a simplified hybrid engine that runs on advanced sustainable fuel without impacting the performance.”

Lawrence Stroll, executive chairman of Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team, said, “It is an honor to be in Japan to celebrate this new partnership. Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team and Honda share many values, that forged a strong bond toward 2026 and beyond.

“The new Aston Martin Technology Centre at Silverstone, UK has been completed, further strengthening the organisation like never before. The new wind tunnel is proving to be a vital asset for development, in addition to a new data centre now being built to further strengthen the team’s capabilities. The team is pushing boundaries and working tirelessly with future success at the forefront.”

Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team will enter a full works partnership with Honda, integrating chassis and power unit development as a single package in pursuit of championship success. The team will also collaborate with Aramco on sustainable fuels and with Valvoline on lubricants.

In related news, BMW M reveals details of electric Neue Klasse

International Motors has announced that its 2027 S13 Integrated Powertrain meets the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) emissions requirements for 2027 model year trucks. Developed from a clean sheet design back in 2017, the 2027 S13 Integrated Powertrain was designed to meet regulatory requirements while continuing to deliver simplicity, performance and reliability.

The 2027 S13 retains over 90% of its hardware from the current platform, supporting continuity in service tools, parts availability and technician training.

“We’ve been preparing for EPA 2027 for years. Our customers won’t face surprises, only the same proven powertrain,” said Dan Kayser, executive vice president, commercial operations, International. “Our customers get a reliable solution without unnecessary complexity.”

According to the company, customers can expect fuel economy, driving performance and powertrain weight comparable to the current S13 Integrated Powertrain.

The powertrain has a compact, efficient design that meets nitrogen-oxide (NOx) regulations. Fleets across North America have logged more than 700 million miles with the powertrain – demonstrating fuel efficiency, service solutions, reliability and drivability.

The 2027 S13 Integrated Powertrain builds on a proven foundation while introducing targeted updates. The S13 engine retains its core design, including a fixed-geometry turbocharger, dual overhead cam layout, 23:1 compression ratio and established aftertreatment system, maintaining existing packaging and service intervals.

New additions for 2027 include variable valve timing to support variable valve braking, a closed crankcase breather and an oil centrifuge. The T14 transmission continues as a compact 14-speed unit with a planetary gearset, integrated PTO options and advanced lubrication, while gaining a 24V transmission control module with predictive shifting based on GPS and topography data. A standardized 24V electrical architecture has also been introduced across the powertrain to reduce complexity and improve cold-start performance and durability, while the cab and chassis systems remain 12V.

In related news, KGM launches hybrid powertrain with silent drive and real-world performance

Horse Powertrain and Sports & Racing Brazil (SRB) have announced a partnership to co-develop and supply competition engines for a new pickup truck category in Brazilian motorsport.

Set to debut in the 2027 season, races in this new multi-brand category will take place on both asphalt and dirt tracks, offering fresh experiences and challenges for teams and motorsport fans in Brazil.

The vehicles will feature a standardized chassis and an engine produced by Horse Powertrain. SRB and Horse Powertrain plan to unveil the first vehicles in 2026 after completing testing, including an exhibition race with manufacturers and teams.

The initial line-up will be equipped with a variant of the Horse H13 engine. The turbocharged, four-cylinder, 1.3-liter engine is designed to operate with flex-fuel technology, common in Brazil, and incorporates cutting-edge innovations to maximize performance and reliability. The ethanol-based category delivers a low well-to-wheel carbon cycle, reducing CO₂ emissions by 70% compared to fossil fuels and lowering motorsport’s environmental footprint.

Featuring a Delta-shaped cylinder head and integrated exhaust manifold, the Horse H13 is compact, lightweight and has a low center of gravity. Combined with other advances – including sophisticated electronics to control the turbo wastegate and exhaust valve, as well as an exclusive direct injection system – the Horse H13 delivers high power and torque with excellent fuel efficiency.

The Horse H13 engines used in the new category will be produced at Horse Powertrain’s plant in Curitiba, Brazil, part of the Horse Technologies division.

Thiago Marques, CEO of SRB, commented, “This project was born to meet a real demand for a pickup truck racing category in Brazil, reflecting the continuous growth of this segment in the market. Our goal is to create a new and engaging category for manufacturers, teams and fans, and our partnership with Horse Powertrain will be key to achieving this mission.”

Patrice Haettel, CEO of Horse Technologies, added, “For Horse Powertrain, entering Brazilian motorsport is a clear demonstration of who we are and what we can offer. Competition is the perfect environment to test technology, reliability and performance, and doing so alongside SRB allows us to showcase the full capability of our Horse H13 engine — produced right here in Brazil. This partnership combines two values we fully share: innovation and competitive spirit. Motorsport is a real and demanding laboratory, and we are proud to see the Horse H13, manufactured locally, take center stage.”

In related news, Yasa unveils record-setting motor at core of in-wheel EV powertrain