Lotus Type 135: a 1,000+ hp V8 supercar, Esprit successor?

Lotus is reportedly developing a new supercar powered by a V8 engine, currently designated as the Type 135.

The last time Lotus utilized a V8 powerplant was in 2004, the same year production for the legendary Esprit officially ended.

The First Lotus Supercar

The Type 135 is slated to be Lotus’s first dedicated supercar and is expected to launch in 2028.

Within the current product hierarchy, the Type 135 will be positioned between the Emira sports car and the Evija hypercar.

This new model will feature a hybrid V8 configuration with an output exceeding 1,000 hp.

Mercedes-AMG or Toyota V8?

At this stage, Lotus has not released specific details regarding the engine supplier for the Type 135.

Currently, Lotus sources internal combustion engines for the Emira from two partners: Mercedes-AMG and Toyota.

Interestingly, both manufacturers are developing brand-new V8 powertrains set to debut officially this year.

The question remains: which will Lotus choose? A Mercedes-AMG V8 or a GR twin-turbo hybrid unit?

Not the First Lotus Hybrid

Technically, the Type 135 will not be the first hybrid vehicle produced by Lotus.

That title belongs to the Lotus Eletre PHEV, which is already available in the Chinese market with a total system output of 939 hp.

Will the Esprit Name Return?

A major point of speculation is whether the “Esprit” nameplate will be revived for this model.

From a heritage perspective, reviving the iconic name makes more sense than marketing it as an upgraded version of the Emira.

Furthermore, the design is said to draw inspiration from the Theory 1 concept introduced in September 2024.

The Future of the Emira

The Type 135 project is a core component of Lotus’s “Focus 2030” business plan.

In the near term, Lotus will also introduce an updated version of the Emira, featuring an enhanced engine and a weight-reduction program.