Horse B20 hybrid engine can keep running underwater

Horse Powertrain has revealed the B20 2.0‑litre turbo petrol engine for hybrid SUVs and off‑road vehicles that are expected to tackle deep water and steep tracks.

Waterproof performance for rough use

Horse says the B20 is fully compliant with IPX8 waterproofing and can keep operating while the vehicle is submerged in water up to 1.1 metres deep.

To achieve this, the engine uses a fully sealed structure with protected electrical components and sensors, plus dedicated sealing between the engine and transmission. The control system can detect when the unit is underwater and then adjust throttle response or limit power to protect itself. This is aimed at vehicles that regularly wade through rivers or heavy floods. It is also rated to handle a 100‑percent grade, roughly a 45‑degree incline.

Output, efficiency and cooling

Depending on configuration, the four‑cylinder B20 produces between 188 hp and 248 hp, with torque ranging from 300 Nm to 380 Nm. Weight is about 130 kg.

The petrol engine uses a Miller‑cycle combustion system with direct injection, specially shaped pistons and high‑tumble intake ports. Horse claims thermal efficiency up to 48.4 percent. An active dual‑cooling setup is designed to control temperatures during long climbs or other high‑load driving.

Where it is already in use

Horse Powertrain was formally set up in 2024 as a joint venture linked to Renault and Geely. The B20 was first shown at the Beijing Auto Show 2026.

Production use has started in China. The engine is already fitted to the Geely Galaxy Cruiser 700 as part of a plug‑in hybrid system that pairs it with Horse's three‑speed hybrid transmission.

There is no Nepal launch or pricing confirmed for vehicles using the B20 yet. For Nepali buyers who drive through floods or head off‑road, this kind of waterproof engine technology looks like an interesting future option rather than an immediate choice in local showrooms.