Horse Powertrain will reveal its Horse C15 range extender system at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich, Germany, offering automakers a compact solution to convert BEVs into range-extended models with minimal platform modifications.
The Horse C15 combines a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine with an integrated generator, inverter, and cooling package in a unit measuring 500 x 550 x 275mm in its naturally aspirated configuration. The system, roughly the size of a briefcase, can be installed horizontally or vertically in either the front compartment or rear of existing EV platforms.
The technology allows original equipment manufacturers to transform BEV platforms into range-extended EVs, expanding their product offerings to meet different market demands. Range-extended vehicles use the combustion engine to maintain battery charge levels rather than directly powering the wheels, with the electric motor providing all traction.
“Range extended EVs are the fastest-growing powertrain category in many global markets,” said Matias Giannini, CEO of Horse Powertrain. “The Horse C15 range extender solution offers OEMs a straightforward and cost-effective way to tap 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, as one of the market’s most efficient and flexible REEV solutions to date.”
The system is designed to comply with Euro 7 emissions standards, including China 7 and SULEV20 requirements. For B- and C-segment vehicles, the naturally aspirated version provides up to 70kW of engine power. A turbocharged variant for D-segment vehicles and light commercial vehicles delivers up to 120kW. Both configurations can operate on gasoline and synthetic fuels.
By incorporating the range extender, manufacturers can reduce battery pack sizes in their electric vehicles, potentially lowering costs and weight while maintaining driving range. The approach also reduces pressure on critical mineral supply chains used in battery production.
The combustion engine in range-extended vehicles operates within its most efficient revolution range, which the company says minimizes fuel consumption and emissions while reducing noise, vibration, and harshness compared to traditional hybrid systems. Unlike plug-in hybrid or conventional hybrid vehicles, the engine never directly drives the wheels.
Range-extended vehicles maintain the driving characteristics of battery electric vehicles, including smooth acceleration and responsiveness, while retaining the ability to charge from public charging stations or domestic power supplies. When combined with low-carbon fuels, the company states the lifecycle environmental impact approaches that of pure battery electric vehicles.
The Horse C15 is part of Horse Powertrain’s X-Range family of solutions designed to integrate combustion and hybrid technology into electric vehicle platforms. Horse Powertrain will display the range extender technology at IAA Mobility 2025 at Hall A2, Booth B40.
