Revolutionary Leishen hybrid system combines compact performance with class-leading thermal efficiency
8 May 2025 – In a major industry milestone, Aurobay Technologies—a division of Horse Powertrain—has secured a 2025 Automotive News PACE Award for its cutting-edge Hybrid Powertrain Technology, developed for Leishen, a Geely Auto Group brand. The award highlights Aurobay’s remarkable achievement in combining innovation, efficiency, and engineering excellence into a next-generation hybrid platform.
At the heart of this award-winning system lies the integration of two key components: the 3DHT100 transmission and the BHE15 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. This marks the industry’s first full hybrid powertrain to merge a serial-parallel dual-electric motor architecture with an innovative embedded planetary gearset structure—an achievement hailed by the PACE Awards judges for its compact dimensions, power delivery, and unmatched thermal efficiency.
Compact Design, Maximum Impact
The 3DHT100 transmission stands out for delivering exceptional torque density in a remarkably compact unit, optimised for vehicles in the A- to D-segments. This multi-gear dual electric motor design enhances responsiveness while preserving fuel economy, offering automakers the flexibility to implement hybrid technology without compromising space or performance.
Paired with this is the BHE15 engine, a 1.5-litre turbocharged unit that redefines efficiency benchmarks for hybrid applications. Leveraging the Miller cycle to maximise airflow and kinetic energy, the engine boasts a 44% increase in airflow kinetic energy and a 20% rise in combustion speed. The result is one of the highest thermal efficiencies in any mass-produced hybrid engine on the market today.
Industry Recognition and Visionary Leadership
“This technology, coming from our Aurobay Technologies division, headquartered in China, is the result of many years of hard work,” said Matias Giannini, CEO of Horse Powertrain. “While many have given up on continuing to innovate in ICE and hybrid technologies, this remains a real focus for us. We are very honoured to receive this award and the recognition of our technology leadership.”
The Automotive News PACE Awards, now in their 30th year, are among the automotive sector’s most prestigious accolades. Celebrating innovation in commercially available technologies, they serve as a benchmark for what’s possible when engineering vision meets real-world application. Aurobay’s hybrid system, already in use across a number of hybrid vehicle models, stood out to the judges for its holistic approach to sustainable performance.
Ruiping Wang, CEO at Aurobay Technologies, added: “We are honoured by this recognition. Our integrated hybrid system for Leishen exemplifies our commitment to pushing boundaries. We’re excited to see this technology embraced by more vehicle platforms globally, bringing enhanced efficiency and performance to OEMs and drivers alike.”
A Hybrid Future Powered by Innovation
In an era where many are shifting focus solely to electric vehicles, Aurobay Technologies is proving that hybrid powertrains still have a vital role to play in the automotive landscape. By blending the best of electric and combustion technologies, Aurobay’s award-winning system is paving the way for smarter, more efficient mobility solutions today—while laying the groundwork for tomorrow’s sustainable transport.
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