Compact Engine Developed by UK Company Transforms Electric Vehicles into Hybrid Vehicles with Extended Driving Ranges

Horse Powertrain, a UK-based joint venture between Renault and Geely, is set to present a groundbreaking hybrid powertrain solution at IAA Mobility 2025. This all-in-one system, dubbed the "Future Hybrid System," aims to revolutionise the electric vehicle (EV) industry by replacing a battery electric vehicle's (BEV) front electric drive unit with an integrated engine, transmission, motor, and power electronics.

The system is designed to be versatile, catering to Europe's B- and C-segment models, as well as larger D-segment cars and light commercial vehicles. Two variants of the "Future Hybrid System" will be showcased: a 740-mm "Performance" variant and a 650-mm "Ultra-Compact" variant, each offering unique benefits.

At the heart of the "Future Hybrid System" is the C15, a 1.5-liter four-cylinder charging generator. Unlike a propulsion engine, the C15 is designed to run at a steady, efficient rpm to power an integrated generator that charges the traction battery and maintains the state of charge. The C15 is fuel-flexible, capable of running on gasoline, ethanol, methanol flex fuels, as well as synthetic fuels, providing automakers with flexibility in their powertrain choices.

The C15, described as "no larger than a briefcase," is designed to slide into existing EV platforms with little or no modification. The system is mounted directly to the vehicle subframe in an east-west orientation, preserving space for other front-end components. This design enables up to a 150-mm reduction in front overhang versus conventional hybrid layouts.

The "Future Hybrid System" also features pre-chamber ignition and supports gasoline, E85 ethanol, M100 methanol, and synthetic fuels. It can integrate with a DC/DC converter, on-board charger, and an 800-V charging booster, further enhancing its compatibility with various EV platforms.

In addition to the "Future Hybrid System," Horse Powertrain will also introduce the C15 generator set, which delivers up to 70 kW (94 hp) and is part of the company's push into compact hybrid powertrains. A turbocharged variant of the C15 lifts output to 120 kW (161 hp) for larger D-segment cars and light commercial vehicles.

The market introduction for the "Future Hybrid System" is targeted for 2027, with the C15 generator set expected to follow suit. With these innovations, Horse Powertrain is set to redefine the hybrid powertrain landscape, offering automakers a practical and efficient solution for extending the range of their battery-electric vehicles.