The HORSE X-Range F15 Direct Drive is a unique system, developed by Horse Powertrain, designed to allow automakers to convert battery electric vehicles (BEVs) into hybrids. The technology consists of an engine, transmission, motor, and power electronics, and can replace the front electric drive unit of a BEV.
But how does this technology work? What principles underpin it? And how is it reshaping traditional models for automakers?
History of the F15 Direct Drive
Before it was named the F15 Direct Drive, an earlier iteration of this technology was introduced as the Future Hybrid Concept (FHC) at Auto Shanghai in 2025. The FHC was presented as a lightweight, modular powertrain designed to integrate within existing BEV platforms.
This initial concept laid the groundwork for what became the X-Range F15 Direct Drive.
The X-Range F15 Direct Drive is the foundation for a series of technologies from Horse Powertrain, now known as the X-Range series, that add hybrid and range-extender capabilities to BEV-native platforms.
Horse Powertrain Innovation VP Guillaume Tuffier discusses the F15 Direct Drive at the Beijing Auto Show 2026
Read more about what's the difference between HEV, PHEV, and REEVs?
What is this technology for?
Beyond being an impressive feat of engineering, the F15 Direct Drive addresses a critical market need.
Traditionally, OEMs have placed significant value on under-the-hood components such as the engine. Increasingly, however, focus has shifted toward software, user experience, and vehicle design, creating space for the commoditization of the combustion engine.
At the same time, as automakers have shifted towards electrification, many OEMs have reduced their internal combustion engine (ICE) capacity. Despite this, demand for hybrids has not diminished; in fact, it has continued to grow and the IEA predicts global EV and hybrid sales to hit 30% of the car market for the first time this year.
The F15 Direct Drive helps bridge this gap. It enables automakers to convert BEVs into hybrids without maintaining separate manufacturing pipelines. Rather than reengineering entire vehicles, OEMs can continue operating as EV specialists while still meeting hybrid demand, and better amortizing their investments into electrification technologies.
The F15 Direct Drive enables automakers to convert BEVs into hybrids without maintaining separate manufacturing pipelines
Read more about why automakers should hybridize their BEVs
How does the F15 Direct Drive work?
A standard BEV typically includes a battery pack and an electric drive unit composed of an electric motor, gearbox, and inverter, either on the front or rear axle. The F15 Direct Drive is designed to replace the front electric drive unit, removing the motor, gearbox, inverter assembly, and associated mounting systems, and replacing them with an engine, transmission, motor, and power electronics.
The system can be configured in either a P1 or P3 layout. In a P1 configuration, the motor is attached directly to the engine crankshaft, driving the wheels alongside the engine. In a P3 configuration, the motor sits between the engine and transmission, enabling electric-only, engine-only, or hybrid driving modes.
In practical terms, this allows automakers to build a fully electric vehicle and add combustion capability without needing to redesign the entire platform. The system can be integrated with minimal modifications to the subframe and hard points.
Read more about what makes up a hybrid powertrain?
The X-Range family
The HORSE X-Range F15 Direct Drive is not a standalone solution; it is part of a broader family of technologies designed to convert BEVs into hybrids. This includes the C15 Direct Drive, F15 Direct Drive, and the C15.
Together, these systems cover the full propulsion architecture of a vehicle, front, rear, and auxiliary range extension, allowing manufacturers to convert existing BEV platforms into HEV, PHEV, or REEV applications with minimal structural changes.
Designed for seamless integration, scalability, and cost efficiency, the X-Range systems enable OEMs to adapt vehicle programs quickly while continuing to leverage existing EV platforms.
Find out more about the F15 Direct Drive and the full X-Range series on our product page.
