A revolutionary new powertrain has been unveiled, which can use a mix of petrol and other fuels to increase the range of battery electric vehicles.
Horse Powertrain has introduced its C15 range extender, a groundbreaking system that enables manufacturers to transform battery electric vehicles into range-extended models with minimal engineering changes.
The compact unit, which is smaller than a briefcase, represents a significant advancement in the company's X-Range portfolio, which focuses on integrating combustion and hybrid technologies into electric vehicle platforms.
This miniaturised system combines an engine, generator and inverter in a single package small enough to slot into existing BEV architectures without requiring substantial modifications.
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A revolutionary new petrol range extender has been unveiled to improve the range
|GETTY
The technology arrives as manufacturers seek flexible solutions to meet diverse market requirements relating to battery electric vehicles.
By offering a straightforward conversion path from pure electric to range-extended configurations, the C15 system allows carmakers to broaden their model offerings while addressing varying consumer preferences across different regions.
The C15 measures features a four-cylinder, 1.5-litre powerplant paired with an integrated electrical generator, which incorporates cooling systems and exhaust components within its diminutive footprint.
Installation flexibility proves exceptional, with the unit capable of both horizontal and vertical mounting positions. Engineers can position the system in either front or rear vehicle compartments, providing unprecedented design freedom for manufacturers.
The new Horse C15 ultra compact range extender will be exhibited at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich
|HORSE POWERTRAINS
The naturally aspirated variant generates up to 70 kilowatts, suitable for smaller B and C-segment vehicles, including superminis and compact cars.
Adding turbocharging technology boosts output to 120 kilowatts for larger D-segment cars and light commercial vehicles.
The system accommodates multiple fuel types, including petrol, ethanol, methanol blends and synthetic alternatives.
All configurations meet stringent Euro 7 emissions standards, alongside China 7 and SULEV20 regulations.
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Matias Giannini, Horse Powertrain's chief executive, highlighted the strategic significance of this launch timing at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich, Germany.
He said: "Range extended EVs (REEVs) are the fastest-growing powertrain category in many global markets.
"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."
The executive expressed confidence in continued market expansion for range-extended vehicles, adding: "Horse C15 will play a critical role in this transition, as one of the market's most efficient and flexible REEV solutions to date."
HORSE POWERTRAINS has one of its biggest facilities in Curitiba, Brazil
|HORSE POWERTRAINS
The C15 technology enables manufacturers to significantly downsize battery packs in their electric vehicles, delivering substantial cost reductions and weight savings.
This approach also alleviates pressure on critical mineral supply chains whilst maintaining vehicle range capabilities.
Unlike conventional plug-in hybrids and standard hybrid vehicles, the combustion engine in a range-extended configuration never provides direct wheel propulsion.
The engine operates exclusively within its optimal efficiency band, substantially reducing fuel usage and emissions whilst minimising noise, vibration and harshness characteristics.