Lotus is officially stepping back into the internal combustion supercar game. After years of pushing an all-electric future, the British marque has confirmed plans for a brand-new V8-powered hybrid supercar set to arrive in 2028, producing more than 986bhp.
The announcement marks one of the biggest strategic shifts for Lotus in recent years. The company had previously committed to becoming an EV-only brand by 2028, but slowing demand for luxury electric vehicles has forced a rethink. Instead, Lotus is now embracing a mixed powertrain strategy that combines combustion, hybrid, and electric technologies.
The upcoming model, internally codenamed Type 135, is expected to take inspiration from the futuristic Theory 1 concept unveiled in 2024. However, unlike the fully electric concept, the production version will feature a thunderous V8 hybrid setup, teased by Lotus through a dramatic rear-end image showcasing two oversized exhaust outlets.
A Modern Lotus With Old-School DNA
According to Lotus CEO Feng Qingfeng, the new supercar aims to reconnect with the rebellious engineering philosophy of founder Colin Chapman.
That means lightweight construction will once again sit at the heart of the car’s identity. Rather than opting for a heavier plug-in hybrid system like many rivals, Lotus has chosen a conventional hybrid configuration to keep weight down and preserve driving purity.
This approach sharply contrasts with competitors such as the Aston Martin Valhalla, Ferrari 296 GTB, and Lamborghini Temerario, all of which rely on plug-in hybrid technology to balance emissions and performance.
Lotus believes its formula will deliver a more engaging and agile driving experience, staying true to the brand’s long-standing philosophy of performance through simplicity.
Mercedes-AMG V8 Could Power the Beast
While Lotus has not officially confirmed the engine supplier, industry speculation strongly points toward a partnership with Mercedes-AMG.
The company already sources a turbocharged four-cylinder engine from AMG for the Lotus Emira, and the upcoming supercar could use the updated AMG-sourced 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 known internally as the M177.
The revised version of the engine now features a motorsport-inspired flat-plane crankshaft, potentially giving the new Lotus a sharper throttle response and a more aggressive exhaust note.
Lotus Repositions for the Future
The Type 135 forms part of Lotus’s larger “Focus 2030” strategy, which dramatically scales down the company’s earlier ambitions.
Back in 2018, Lotus launched its Vision 80 roadmap targeting annual sales of 150,000 units by 2028 through rapid electrification. But according to Feng, the premium EV market has not grown as expected, especially in China, where luxury EV adoption remains below forecasts.
As a result, Lotus has revised its long-term sales target down to 30,000 vehicles annually by 2030, focusing instead on niche, high-performance products for passionate enthusiasts.
The company also confirmed that hybrid technology will expand across its lineup, including future versions of the Emira and the new Lotus Eletre SUV.
A Return Enthusiasts Have Been Waiting For
For many enthusiasts, this announcement feels like Lotus rediscovering its soul. The brand last sold a V8-powered sports car in 2004 when the legendary Lotus Esprit was discontinued.
Now, nearly 25 years later, Lotus appears ready to bring emotion, noise, and lightweight performance back into the spotlight. And if the early details are anything to go by, the Type 135 could become one of the most exciting hybrid supercars of the decade.
