New twin-turbo V8 that will power Lotus’ revived Esprit unveiled

The new twin-turbo V8 that is set to power the revived Lotus Esprit has been unveiled by Horse Powertrain. 

If you aren’t familiar with Horse Powertrain, it’s an engine building joint venture between Renault and Geely, based in London. 

Given this UK connection, it feels fitting that their V8 will find its way into the revived Lotus Esprit in the near future. 

The V8 in question is a 4.0-litre twin-turbo unit that will eventually be paired with an eight-speed dual clutch transmission and a hybrid system. 

Total output of this powertrain is yet to be confirmed, but we do know that the engine alone will produce 500kW and 800Nm. 

It also tips the scales at just 200kg, which makes it one of the most power-dense V8s available, according to Horse Powertrain. 

The transmission that will be paired with this engine will make use of a “sportscar-grade wet dual clutch” with quick response times. 

Now, the car that this engine will eventually make its way into remains a mystery for the most part. 

Lotus has given it the ‘Type 135’ codename, but it is widely understood that it will eventually become the new Esprit. 

The brand has remained tight-lipped about the details, other than it will likely pack north of 750kW from its hybrid powertrain. 

“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.”