Horse Powertrain, an engine manufacturer formed through a joint venture between Renault and Geely, has announced it will supply engines for a new Brazilian motorsport category featuring only pickup trucks, which is yet to be named. The competition is scheduled to debut in the 2027 season, but the vehicles are already undergoing testing .
The engine will be the Horse H13, the 1.3-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder flex-fuel engine that already equips the Renault Duster and Boreal, and which will also be in the new Niagara pickup truck – debuting in 2026. While the conventional version of this engine has 163 hp, in competitions the power will exceed 200 hp and torque should be around the current 27 kgfm, always using ethanol.
The new category foresees the use of a standardized chassis and a mechanical assembly developed in partnership between Horse and SRB. The first appearances of the prototypes will take place in 2026, in special asphalt and dirt events, before the inaugural season.
The H13 engine is produced at the Horse Powertrain factory in Curitiba, but the assembly will receive competition-oriented preparation, focusing on power, durability, and efficiency.
The car will use a six-speed sequential gearbox from Sadev with paddle shifters. This combination is common in national and international racing categories that use compact turbo engines. The aim is to ensure quick gear changes and mechanical stability during long races or on tracks with varying levels of grip.
The pickup trucks will have a bubble-type body made of fiberglass and a declared weight of 860 kg. The package includes independent wishbone suspension on all four wheels, Pirelli Slick tires in size 265/645 R18, and Injepro electronics. Data acquisition will be handled by the Pro Tune system, already known in Brazilian motorsports.
The H13 engine features a Delta-shaped cylinder head with an integrated exhaust manifold. The design aims to reduce weight, improve heat flow, and allow for a lower position in the chassis. The reduced center of gravity should be particularly beneficial in mixed circuit races, where stability in fast corners is crucial.
The electronic control system includes specific management of the turbo wastegate and exhaust valve, as well as a custom calibration for the direct injection system. Horse claims that the system delivers high energy efficiency even at high performance levels, an essential characteristic for races that demand consistent power.
In 2026, the public will see the first demonstrations. The exhibitions will serve to validate the technical package and adjust details before the full schedule. If the tests confirm the potential of the H13, the category could become a relevant showcase for sporty pickup trucks developed in the country.
