Lotus to Introduce V8 Hybrid Supercar
British automotive manufacturer Lotus is reportedly preparing a new weapon for the supercar segment through a vehicle powered by a V8 hybrid engine, scheduled to launch in 2028, aimed at reinforcing the performance character synonymous with the Lotus brand.
CarsCoops reported on Thursday (1/10) that the supercar is currently known by its development code, Type 135. Lotus had previously planned this model as an electric vehicle, but that strategy has since changed.
The latest model is rumoured to utilise a V8 hybrid powertrain capable of producing up to 1,000 PS.
While the final design of the car has not yet been revealed, the Theory 1 concept introduced in 2024 is said to serve as one of the inspirations for the next generation’s design language.
Independent renders discussed by Carscoops show how an Emira-based Lotus could be made far more aggressive, although these designs are not official Lotus releases.
This strategic shift is also evident in Lotus’s decision to retain the Emira. The internal combustion engine sports car will remain part of the Lotus product range, as consumer demand for conventional sports cars persists.
Lotus is also preparing updates for the Emira. The next generation is rumoured to use a 3.0-litre twin-turbo engine developed by Horse Powertrain, a joint venture involving Geely and Renault.
The engine is claimed by the company to be capable of producing up to 536 hp before additional power is added via a hybrid system.
On the other hand, Lotus is not entirely abandoning electric vehicles. The Eletre, Emeya, and Evija remain part of the company’s electrification portfolio.
Lotus previously stated that these electric vehicles have expanded its customer base and have become a vital part of its business.
With this new strategy, Lotus is now adopting a multi-powertrain approach. Electric vehicles will be maintained, but internal combustion engines and hybrid technology are being reintegrated into the development of high-performance products.
This shift demonstrates how Lotus is attempting to align its product strategy with market conditions and consumer demand, without completely abandoning the direction of electrification.