Currently reading: Horse reveals drop-in range-extender conversion for EVs

Engine builder backed by Renault, Geely and Aramco claims new kit is no larger than a briefcase

Combustion engine firm Horse has revealed a range-extender powertrain that has been designed to allow easy conversions of battery-electric vehicles.

The new set-up, which will be shown by the Renault, Geely and Aramco joint venture at the Munich motor show, comprises a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with an integrated generator and inverter. It produces up to 94bhp and is claimed to be no larger than a briefcase. As such, the unit – named C15 – can be installed in the ‘frunk’ of an EV or at its rear end, either horizontally or vertically.

There will also be a turbocharged version capable of putting out 161bhp that is aimed at D-segment models and commercial vehicles.

The engines have been designed to run on petrol, synthetic fuels and ethanol or methanol flex-fuel. They are said to be compliant with the upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations.

Neither unit has been engineered to drive a car’s wheels. Instead, they will run in their most efficient rev range for generating electricity for an EV’s drive battery, balanced against noise, vibration and harshness requirements.

Horse CEO Matias Giannini said: “Range-extended EVs [REEVs] are the fastest-growing powertrain category in many global markets. The Horse C15 range-extender solution offers [car companies] a straightforward and cost-effective way to tap into this opportunity, and adapt their native BEV platforms into REEVs. We believe demand for REEVs will continue to grow.”

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Charlie Martin

Charlie Martin Autocar
Title: Staff Writer

As part of Autocar’s news desk, Charlie plays a key role in the title’s coverage of new car launches and industry events. He’s also a regular contributor to its social media channels, creating content for Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and Twitter.

Charlie joined Autocar in July 2022 after a nine-month stint as an apprentice with sister publication What Car?, during which he acquired his gold-standard NCTJ diploma with the Press Association.

He is the proud owner of a Mk4 Mazda MX-5 but still feels pangs of guilt over selling his first car, a Fiat Panda 100HP.

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sabre 3 September 2025

This engine suits a Horseless Carriage better than any other.

xxxx 3 September 2025

Please show a picture of that 'easily converted BEV', no company will re engineer a 'from ground up designed' BEV to accept a petrol engine.

Stroudley 3 September 2025

94hp sounds a lot. If an electric car does 3.6miles/kwh then that's 1MJ/mile so at 60mph that's 17kW, or 22hp. It only needs to top up the battery. Why make it as big as a briefcase, when a shoebox may do? It'll need a radiator and fuel tank too. But what do i know? Actually, why not use the petrol as a coolant for the engine instead of water, what could go wrong?