Lotus is shifting its strategy away from an all-electric lineup, now targeting a mix of 60 percent hybrids and 40 percent EVs. The company plans to launch a new combustion-powered supercar in 2028, internally designated as Type 135, which is expected to revive the Esprit nameplate.
The Type 135 will utilize engines from Horse Powertrain, a joint venture between Renault and Geely. The top-tier model will feature the W40, a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine weighing 200 kg. This combustion unit produces over 671 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque, with total system output exceeding 986 horsepower when paired with an electric motor.
Base versions of the vehicle will be equipped with the W30, a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This unit generates 536 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque before hybrid assistance. The V6 engine weighs 160 kg, which is 40 kg lighter than the V8 variant. Both engines will be paired with an 8LDCT eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The design of the upcoming model may draw inspiration from the Lotus Theory 1 concept revealed in 2024. While the brand previously aimed for an all-EV portfolio by 2030, current market conditions and sales performance have prompted the company to integrate hybrid technology into its future vehicle lineup.
