New hybrid V8 detailed ahead of debut in revived Lotus Esprit

The hybrid V8 powertrain set to debut in the upcoming Lotus Type 135 supercar – widely expected to revive the Lotus Esprit nameplate – has been detailed for the first time, with key specifications revealed.

Planned for launch in 2028, the Type 135 range-topper will be powered by a direct-injected 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with hybrid assistance, developed by Horse Powertrain – a joint venture between Geely and Renault.

The Horse W40, as it's known, produces upwards of 500kW and 800Nm on its own, with lightweight electric motors expected to boost power beyond 746kW (1000hp) for the Type 135.

Arranged in a 'hot-V' layout, which places the turbochargers and exhaust manifolds inside the valley between the cylinder banks, the bent eight is designed to deliver sharper throttle response by shortening the distance exhaust gases must travel to reach the turbos.

Besides reducing turbo lag, this configuration makes the engine more compact, while its relatively low weight of just 200kg should help Lotus achieve its target vehicle weight of 1500kg – undercutting most modern supercars despite the inclusion of hybrid technology.

For reference, the 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 Ferrari 296 GTB has a 7.45kWh battery and weighs around 1540kg, while the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 Lamborghini Temerario has a 3.8kWh battery pack and weighs 1690kg. 

The new V8 pairs with an eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, also developed by Horse Powertrain, capable of handling up to 1050Nm of torque. Gear shifts take as little as 20 milliseconds.

Both will debut in the Type 135, although Horse Powertrain says the W40's combination of low-end torque and high peak power are also 'ideal' for performance utility vehicles and 4x4s.

“We are excited to partner with Horse Powertrain to bring its advanced V8 engine and hybrid transmission technology to the upcoming Lotus Type 135," said Lotus CEO Feng Qingfeng.

"By bringing these technologies together with Lotus’ expertise in lightweight engineering and chassis dynamics, we aim to deliver a new generation of supercar performance, combining outstanding power, efficiency, and the precise, engaging driving experience that defines Lotus.”

When the Lotus Type 135 arrives in 2028 it will be the company’s first V8-powered model since 2004, when the Esprit exited production after a 28-year run.

Lotus is also developing a V6 hybrid-powered successor to the Emira, with assistance from Horse Powertrain. This powertrain is also expected to be offered in the Type 135.

The current Emira is available with Mercedes-AMG four-cylinder and Toyota V6 engines, although Lotus is moving away from both external suppliers.

The next-generation Emira and Type 135 form part of the company's new Focus 2030 plan, which includes an annual sales target of 30,000 vehicles – significantly lower than the 150,000 outlined under its previous Vision80 strategy.

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