Lotus Esprit returns with a new V8, targeting more than 735 kW
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Lotus is preparing to bring back the legendary Esprit, but the supercar originally conceived as an electric vehicle will instead get a new twin-turbo V8 and a hybrid powertrain. Developed by the Renault and Geely joint venture HORSE Powertrain, the four-litre engine delivers more than 500 kW, while total powertrain output is expected to exceed 735 kW. Lotus aims to combine Ferrari- and Lamborghini-level performance with significantly less weight.
All-new V8 weighs just 200 kilograms
HORSE Powertrain has unveiled its first eight-cylinder engine, the W40, developed around the needs of hybrid sports cars.
The four-litre V8 uses direct injection and two turbochargers positioned between the cylinder banks in a so-called hot-V layout. This makes the engine more compact, shortens the path the exhaust gases take to the turbines and helps improve throttle response.
The engine develops more than 500 kW and 800 Nm while weighing approximately 200 kg. By comparison, the most powerful version of the current Lotus Emira delivers 294 kW.
The new engine is paired with the HORSE 8LDCT eight-speed dual-clutch hybrid transmission, which can handle up to 1050 Nm of torque. The manufacturer promises shift times of less than 20 milliseconds.
Hybrid powertrain must keep weight in check
Lotus's new supercar is being developed under the Type 135 designation and is expected to revive the Esprit name, which the company registered again in the European Union in 2025. The final model name has not yet been confirmed. The mid-engined sports car will combine a V8 with electric motors and is likely to use all-wheel drive. Lotus aims to keep the vehicle's weight at around 1500 kg.
That would be a significant achievement. By comparison, the Lamborghini Temerario weighs more than 1.6 tonnes and its V8 hybrid powertrain develops 677 kW.
Lotus is also exploring the use of particularly lightweight electric motors. The company wants to reduce the weight of an electric motor producing approximately 150 kW from the usual 75–95 kilograms to around 20 kilograms. This remains a development target, however, rather than a confirmed production specification.
Renault and Geely aim to become supercar engine suppliers
The significance of the new V8 extends beyond Lotus.
Renault and Geely each own 45% of HORSE Powertrain, while Saudi Aramco holds the remaining 10%. The company also develops internal combustion and hybrid powertrains for other carmakers.
The W40 is based on the technology of the company's three-litre W30 V6 engine, allowing HORSE to share development costs across several engine families. The manufacturer also sees applications for the new V8 in high-performance pickup trucks and SUVs. This would effectively make it the first technological showcase for the new engine family.
Esprit must restore Lotus's sports car reputation
Lotus previously planned to make its entire model range electric. The Eletre and Emeya took the brand into new segments, but its electrification strategy remained questionable to enthusiasts of traditional sports cars.
The new Esprit therefore marks a significant change of direction.
In the European market, it will compete with the Ferrari 296 and Lamborghini Temerario. Both use hybrid powertrains, but Lotus wants to stand apart with lower weight and a more driver-focused character.
The Esprit's biggest challenge is not exceeding 735 kW, but preserving Colin Chapman's philosophy of lightweight construction. Enormous power is already commonplace among today's supercars. If Lotus can deliver the same performance with less weight, the result could be something far more interesting than another power record.
The new supercar is scheduled to launch in 2028. Its price, final weight and performance figures have not yet been made public.
