Horse, a joint venture backed by Renault, Geely and Saudi Aramco, has revealed a compact hybrid powertrain concept aimed squarely at retrofitting existing electric vehicles (EVs).
Dubbed the Future Hybrid Concept, the unit combines an internal combustion engine (ICE), electric motor and transmission into a single bolt-in module, designed to replace the front-mounted electric motor typically found in EVs.
This development comes as global EV momentum cools and automakers reassess their timelines for full electrification. Several major manufacturers have recently scaled back EV-only strategies, citing slower-than-expected market uptake and infrastructure hurdles. Horse’s system appears tailored to meet this pivot head-on.
Minimal modifications, maximum flexibility
According to Horse, the new hybrid module mounts directly to an EV’s subframe and requires only minimal structural changes.
By eliminating the need for separate EV and hybrid platforms, the concept offers OEMs a more agile response to fluctuating market demand.
CEO Matias Giannini framed the innovation as part of a broader industry course correction: “For over a decade it looked like battery electric vehicles were the only path to net zero... However, we’re now shifting towards a technology-neutral world.”
He stressed that the concept gives OEMs a means to diversify powertrains without retooling entire production systems.
Designed for global fuel diversity
The powertrain is engineered to support a variety of fuels, including petrol, E85 ethanol, M100 methanol and synthetic alternatives.
This versatility allows manufacturers to cater to regional fuel availability and emissions regulations while extending the life of internal combustion in a transitional market.
With Aramco among its backers, Horse’s move reflects a clear alignment with continued ICE relevance. While not a direct EV opponent, the Future Hybrid Concept presents a pragmatic stopgap in markets where full electrification remains out of reach.
