New Engine System Could Turn Electric Cars Into Hybrids

A new hybrid powertrain unveiled ahead of the 2026 Beijing Auto Show could allow carmakers to turn existing electric vehicle platforms into hybrids without carrying out a full redesign.

The system, called X-Range C15 Direct Drive, has been developed by Horse Powertrain, a UK-based supplier backed by Renault and Geely. It is designed to fit into current EV architectures, giving automakers a way to build a wider mix of electrified vehicles from the same platform.

That means manufacturers could potentially use a single EV base for battery-electric vehicles, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and range-extended EVs, avoiding the major engineering changes that usually raise development costs.

The new setup combines a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, transmission, and two electric motors in one housing. One motor works as a generator, while the other is linked to the transmission output shaft.

This allows the vehicle to run in different ways, including a series-hybrid mode where the electric motor drives the wheels on its own, similar to a range extender, while the engine helps generate power.

Horse Powertrain said the standard version is configured for rear-wheel drive, though automakers can also add another electric drive unit at the front to create an all-wheel-drive version.

The engine will be offered in two versions. A naturally aspirated option for smaller vehicles produces 70 kW or 95 horsepower, while a turbocharged version for larger models delivers 120 kW or 160 horsepower.

The company says the idea behind the system is to give automakers more flexibility as global demand shifts between fully electric and hybrid models. Instead of developing separate platforms, manufacturers could respond faster to market demand while keeping costs under control.

Horse Powertrain is expected to formally showcase the X-Range C15 Direct Drive during the Beijing Auto Show, which runs from April 24 to May 3.

The company is also set to display other hybrid technologies, including the H12 hybrid engine concept, which it says can deliver fuel economy of up to 71.3 mpg under WLTP testing.

This has been done since forever. It’s just hybrid with extra steps. Forthing , Deepal, tiggo and some others already do this.

Though there won’t be any bigger range since the car Weight shall increase. Thus would lead to short-term tire life road broken