Lotus confirms hybrid Type 135 with a V8 producing more than 1,000 hp
Lotus has confirmed the development of the mid-engined Type 135 hybrid supercar with a V8 engine, scheduled for release in 2028. Company CEO Feng Qingfeng announced this during an investor call on August 27. According to Motor1, the V8 version is expected to produce more than 1,000 horsepower, while the car's target curb weight is less than 1.5 tonnes.
V8 and V6 versions
According to the publication, Lotus expects the Type 135 lineup to include V8 and V6 versions. Components from Horse, a joint venture between Geely and Renault that is already developing internal-combustion-engine components for Lotus, could be used for a possible V6 variant.
The Type 135 is positioned as a model between the Emira sports car and the Evija electric hypercar. At the same time, Feng Qingfeng said that the new model is intended to fill the gap between the Emira and the Emeya: it should retain Lotus's characteristic handling and, with V8 hybrid technology, approach the Emeya's technical level.
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Target weight and electric motor
The head of Lotus acknowledged that achieving a weight below 1.5 tonnes would not be easy because of the combination of an 800-volt architecture, a hybrid system, a V8 and an electric motor. To reduce weight, the company plans to use electric-motor technologies developed using Formula 1 expertise.
Qingfeng previously compared a typical 150-kW electric motor, which can weigh up to 209 pounds, with a new design weighing around 44 pounds. The model is also planned to receive a dual-clutch transmission capable of handling high torque without a significant increase in weight. Lotus has not yet determined the number of gears or the production site for the Type 135.
The project is part of the Focus 2030 strategy, which envisages combining internal-combustion-engine cars, hybrids and electric vehicles in the Lotus model range.
