Horse Powertrain Unveils X-Range C15 Direct Drive Hybrid System to Extend Combustion Engine Lifespan

Horse Powertrain, the joint venture between Renault and Geely, has introduced the X-Range C15 Direct Drive, a hybrid powertrain designed to extend the lifespan of internal combustion engines while enabling a smooth transition to hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) platforms.

The system integrates a four-cylinder engine, transmission, electric motor, and power electronics into a single, compact unit with a shared housing. This design allows the powertrain to mount directly onto a vehicle’s rear subframe, offering automakers a versatile solution for traditional hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and range-extenders.

Key Features of the X-Range C15 Direct Drive

• Engine Variants: The C15 engine is available in naturally aspirated (94 hp / 70 kW) and turbocharged (161 hp / 120 kW) configurations. The turbocharged version is tailored for D-segment vehicles and light commercial vehicles (LCVs).
• Hybrid Capabilities: The system can operate in both serial and parallel modes, with the electric motor providing additional power. Power is delivered to the rear wheels, and the setup can also integrate with a front-mounted electric motor to enable all-wheel drive.
• Compatibility: Designed to retrofit existing battery-electric vehicle (BEV) platforms, the C15 Direct Drive allows manufacturers to pivot to hybrids or range-extenders with minimal redesign and tooling changes.

Market Strategy and Industry Impact

Horse Powertrain positions the X-Range C15 Direct Drive as a solution to meet diverse mobility needs while reducing time-to-market for hybrid and range-extender vehicles. The system aims to help automakers balance their transition from BEVs to hybrids, catering to global market demands.

“The X-Range family of powertrains is about reflecting today’s market realities, allowing automakers to pivot from BEVs to hybrids and range extenders on a single platform, quickly and at scale.”

— Matias Giannini, CEO of Horse Powertrain

Giannini added, “The X-Range C15 Direct Drive is an ‘all-in-one’ powertrain, allowing BEV platforms to be converted to HEVs, PHEVs, and REEVs with little redesign or tooling changes required. This dramatically reduces time-to-market, amortizes BEV investments, and caters to the diverse array of mobility needs in today’s global market.”