picture: Horse Powertrain

Abstract: At the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, Horse Powertrain – a joint venture between Renault and Geely- introduced the ‘Future Hybrid Concept,’ a compact powertrain designed to convert battery electric vehicles (BEVs) into hybrids with minimal modifications. This innovation aims to provide automakers with a flexible solution to adapt to varying market demands and regulatory environments.(Carscoops)

Reimagining Electrification: The ‘Future Hybrid Concept’

Horse Powertrain’s ‘Future Hybrid Concept’ integrates an internal combustion engine (ICE), electric motor, and transmission into a single, compact unit. Designed to replace the front electric drive unit of existing BEVs, this system allows for seamless integration without significant alterations to the vehicle’s architecture. The powertrain supports various fuels, including gasoline, ethanol, methanol, and synthetic alternatives, enhancing its adaptability across different markets. (evdesignandmanufacturing.com, CarGuide.de, New Atlas)

Strategic Implications for OEMs

This development offers automakers a pragmatic approach to diversify their powertrain offerings without the need for extensive reengineering. By enabling the conversion of BEVs into hybrids, manufacturers can respond more agilely to fluctuating consumer preferences and regional regulatory requirements. The modular nature of the ‘Future Hybrid Concept’ also facilitates cost-effective production strategies by utilizing existing platforms.(evdesignandmanufacturing.com, DIGITIMES Asia)

Market Context and Future Outlook

The introduction of this hybrid solution comes at a time when the automotive industry is grappling with the challenges of full electrification, including infrastructure limitations and consumer hesitancy in certain regions. By offering a middle ground, Horse Powertrain’s innovation could play a pivotal role in the transition toward sustainable mobility. The company anticipates the first vehicles equipped with this system to be on the roads by 2028. (Carscoops, evdesignandmanufacturing.com)

References:

1. Automotive News Europe. “Renault-Geely JV Horse displays kit to convert EVs to hybrids at Shanghai show.” April 24, 2025. (Automotive News Europe)
2. EV Design and Manufacturing. “Horse Powertrain reveals Future Hybrid Concept for electric vehicle conversion.” April 29, 2025. (evdesignandmanufacturing.com)
3. Carscoops. “This Tiny Engine Turns EVs Into Gas Hybrids.” April 17, 2025. (Carscoops)
4. InsideEVs. “Renault’s ‘Horse’ Wants To Turn EVs Into Hybrids.” April 20, 2025. (InsideEVs)
5. New Atlas. “Horse hybrid powertrain concept turns EV into hybrid car.” April 22, 2025. (New Atlas)