Sign up for our popular daily email to catch all the latest EV news!
Horse Powertrain, a global leader in innovative powertrain systems, introduced its groundbreaking Future Hybrid Concept at Auto Shanghai 2025. This compact, modular hybrid powertrain integrates an internal combustion engine, electric motor, and transmission into a single unit, designed to hybridize Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) platforms with minimal modifications. The unveiling marks a significant step toward flexible, sustainable mobility solutions, supporting the automotive industry’s transition to net zero emissions.
Key Highlights:
- Compact Design: Combines engine, motor, and transmission into one unit, fitting existing BEV platforms.
- Fuel Flexibility: Supports gasoline, biofuels, ethanol, methanol, and synthetic fuels.
- Minimal Modifications: Bolts directly to BEV subframes, enabling hybrid models without major redesigns.
- Global Applicability: Features pre-chamber ignition and accommodates diverse environmental standards.
- Production Efficiency: Reduces tooling and assembly complexity for mixed propulsion lines.
- Market Readiness: First vehicles with this powertrain expected on roads by 2028.
The Future Hybrid Concept addresses the evolving needs of automakers facing a shift toward technology-neutral solutions. Unlike traditional hybrid systems requiring extensive retooling, this powertrain’s lightweight, modular design serves as a range extender for BEVs, enabling all-wheel-drive operation in both electric and parallel modes. Its slimline, east-west orientation ensures compliance with global safety standards, while integrated power electronics—including a controller, inverter, and 800V charging booster—enhance efficiency and fast-charging capabilities.
Horse Powertrain’s CEO, Matias Giannini, emphasized the system’s role in offering automakers flexibility. “This innovation allows OEMs to deliver diverse powertrain options with minimal disruption to production,” he said. Chief Engineer Ragnar Burenius added that the single-piece design simplifies integration, making it adaptable for both BEV and traditional combustion platforms.
Supporting fuels like E85 ethanol and M100 methanol, the powertrain caters to regional preferences, particularly in markets like South America, China, and India. Its compatibility with next-generation heat pumps and R290 refrigerants anticipates future environmental regulations. With a global network of 17 manufacturing plants and 19,000 employees, Horse Powertrain is poised to meet 80% of market demands.
The Future Hybrid Concept will debut at Auto Shanghai on April 24, 2025, at booth 8A17, signaling a new era of hybrid technology that balances sustainability, efficiency, and production scalability.
Sign up for our popular daily email to catch all the latest EV news!
