Overview
- Horse Powertrain introduced the X-Range C15 Direct Drive, a compact rear-axle module that replaces a BEV’s rear motor to enable hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or range-extended variants with minimal redesign.
- The unit integrates a 1.5-liter gasoline engine, a hybrid transmission, two electric motors, and the power electronics into a single flat housing that fits where the rear e-drive sits.
- The system uses a P1+P3 layout, with a small P1 motor at the crankshaft that functions as a generator and a larger P3 motor at the output shaft that drives the wheels in electric or hybrid modes.
- Two engine specs are offered: a naturally aspirated 70 kW version for smaller cars and a turbocharged 120 kW version for larger models and light commercial vehicles, with the generator sending up to 70 kW or 110 kW to the high-voltage battery.
- The rear integration supports all-wheel drive with a front e-motor, preserves underfloor battery space, eases exhaust routing, and can add a DC-DC converter, an on-board charger, or an 800-volt charging booster; it will be shown at Beijing Auto Show 2026 as part of Horse’s X-Range family that includes the F15 front-drive module and the C15 range extender.