This Small Engine Converts Electric Vehicles into Gasoline Hybrids | Carscoops

      Horse has introduced a new powertrain capable of converting electric vehicles (EVs) into internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

      This innovative system integrates an engine, electric motor, and transmission into a single compact unit.

      The design is intended to replace the front-mounted motors currently used in existing EVs.

      Horse Powertrain may not be widely recognized yet, but that could soon change. Supported by Renault, Geely, and Aramco, the company aims to establish itself as a significant contributor to the evolution of hybrid powertrains, especially those that extend the use of internal combustion for a while longer.

      Given Aramco’s involvement, it is expected that the company will focus on gasoline and hybrid technologies. As the Saudi oil behemoth is not inclined to eliminate fossil fuels completely, Horse's strategy aligns well with this approach.

      More: Renault and Geely’s Horse Powertrain Initiative Is Sustaining ICE Technologies

      We are learning more about Horse as the company prepares to introduce a hybrid powertrain concept at the Shanghai Auto Show. This concept aims to maintain revenue from oil by hybridizing electric vehicle frameworks with “minimal modifications.”

      On a serious note, this could be beneficial as many automakers underestimated the speed at which electric vehicle adoption would occur, expecting a seamless transition to EVs. This has not transpired, leading companies to discontinue certain models and retract their EV-only strategies.

      A Hybrid for the Electric Vehicle Era

      Returning to the powertrain, it is named the Future Hybrid Concept, which integrates an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, and a transmission into a compact unit. Horse claims it can be fitted into current electric vehicle platforms, allowing manufacturers to “adapt to evolving customer preferences.” It also asserts that this will eliminate the necessity for multiple platforms and production lines.

      While the company did not provide extensive details, it mentioned that the powertrain is built to replace the front-mounted motors found in EVs. They indicated that the unit directly attaches to the vehicle’s subframe and only requires minor adjustments to convert an EV into a hybrid.

      The powertrain is intended for global use and is planned to accommodate a variety of fuels, including gasoline, E85, M100 methanol, and synthetic fuels.

      CEO Matias Giannini remarked, “For over a decade, it seemed that battery electric vehicles were the sole route to achieving net zero, and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) planned accordingly. However, we are now moving towards a technology-neutral landscape, with different markets and applications each following their sustainable mobility path.” He further noted that their concept addresses this challenge and enables “OEMs to provide diverse powertrain options with minimal disruption to the production process and resource investment.”