UK firm’s briefcase-sized engine to turn EVs into range-extended hybrid vehicles
Smaller than you think, more powerful than expected.
UK-based company Horse Powertrain is preparing to show a compact 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine-generator that turns battery-electric vehicles into range-extended series hybrids. Described as “no larger than a briefcase,” the base C15 unit measures 50 × 55 × 28 cm and is designed to slide into existing EV platforms with little or no modification, adding liquid-fuel refueling alongside battery charging and extending real-world range.
The C15 is a generator set, not a propulsion engine. It is not connected to the wheels; instead, it runs at a steady, efficient rpm to power an integrated generator that charges the traction battery and maintains the state of charge. The Euro 7–compliant naturally aspirated version delivers up to 70 kW (94 hp), aimed at Europe’s B- and C-segment models.
A turbocharged variant lifts output to 120 kW (161 hp) for larger D-segment cars and light commercial vehicles. Horse says the package can be installed horizontally or vertically and packaged at the front or rear, allowing automakers to convert native BEV platforms into range-extended EVs (REEVs).
Beyond adding backstop range, the company is pitching the C15 as a way to design vehicles around smaller battery packs without sacrificing total driving range, potentially cutting weight and cost. The system is also fuel-flexible: it is designed to run on gasoline, ethanol, and methanol flex fuels, as well as synthetic fuels.
“Range-extended EVs (REEVs) are the fastest-growing powertrain category in many global markets,” said CEO Matias Giannini. “The Horse C15 range extender solution offers OEMs a straightforward and cost-effective way to tap into this opportunity and adapt their native BEV platforms into REEVs. We believe demand for REEVs will continue to grow; Horse C15 will play a critical role in this transition.”
Alongside the C15 family, Horse will use IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich to detail its “Future Hybrid System,” an all-in-one hybrid powertrain that replaces a BEV’s front electric drive unit with an integrated engine, transmission, motor, and power electronics.
Two widths are being shown: a 740-mm “Performance” variant with a P1 + P3 motor layout (at the engine and transmission output shafts) and a 650-mm “Ultra-Compact” P2 layout (motor between engine and transmission). Both use a 1.5-liter four-cylinder and a dedicated hybrid transmission, and can integrate with a DC/DC converter, on-board charger, and an 800-V charging booster.
Mounted directly to the vehicle subframe in an east-west orientation, the system’s packaging is intended to preserve space for other front-end components. Horse says the integration enables up to a 150-mm reduction in front overhang versus conventional hybrid layouts, and makes it easier to retain HVAC and air-conditioning systems, including PFAS-free units that can require more space.
The architecture is pitched as a route to AWD REEVs by pairing the front module with a rear P4 motor, while the Performance variant can also independently propel front-wheel-drive hybrids.
“Future Hybrid System achieves an unprecedented degree of compactness: it’s shorter and narrower than any equivalent system on the market,” said CTO Ingo Scholten. He added that this allows a full hybrid package “in spaces originally designed for electric drive units.”
The company is also investigating a three-cylinder variant that could shrink width by a further 70 mm. The Future Hybrid System features a pre-chamber ignition and supports gasoline, E85 ethanol, M100 methanol, and synthetic fuels, with market introduction targeted for 2027.
interestingengineering
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ARAMCO COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF 10% STAKE IN HORSE POWERTRAIN LIMITED
– Following the signing of definitive agreements on June 28, 2024, Aramco has completed its acquisition of a 10% equity stake in Horse Powertrain Limited (“Horse Powertrain”), based on an enterprise value of €7.4 billion
– Renault Group and Geely (through Geely Holding and Geely Auto) each retain a 45% equity stake in Horse Powertrain
– The investment solidifies a key strategic partnership between Horse Powertrain and Aramco, leveraging their collective expertise and resources to pursue advances in powertrain technologies, synthetic fuels, and lubricants
– The partnership builds on Aramco’s research and development (R&D) efforts in lower-carbon mobility solutions, aims to contribute to transport emission reductions, and helps to pursue Horse Powertrain’s vision of becoming a consolidated powertrain Tier 1 supplier to accelerate the energy transition
https://www.horse.cars/newsroom/
