The 2028 Lotus Type 135 will debut a new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 and eight-speed hybrid dual-clutch transmission from Horse Powertrain, with Lotus targeting more than 735kW (1000PS) from the combined powertrain.

Widely expected to revive the Esprit name, the Type 135 remains known by its development designation, with Lotus yet to confirm the production name.

Horse Powertrain unveiled the W40 engine and 8LDCT transmission on 10 November 2026, confirming they will make their debut together in the Lotus.

The W40 is Horse Powertrain's first production-ready V8 and has been developed for hybrid applications from the outset. The company lists peak engine output at more than 500kW and maximum torque at 800Nm, with an engine weight of approximately 200kg.

Those figures cover the combustion engine rather than the complete hybrid system. Lotus's combined output target of more than 1000PS equates to more than 735kW.

Designed for longitudinal installation, the V8 uses two top-mounted turbochargers in a hot-V arrangement. Its other features include direct fuel injection and shortened turbocharger intake paths.

The accompanying 8LDCT transmission uses a wet dual-clutch arrangement and supports peak input torque of up to 1050Nm. That figure is the gearbox's capacity, not a confirmed combined torque output for the Type 135.

Horse claims a clutch pre-fill time below 50 milliseconds and a shift response below 20 milliseconds. The transmission also incorporates a silicon carbide control system and power module, alongside a variable-displacement mechanical pump.

“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 Feng Qingfeng, CEO of Lotus.

Lotus outlined the Type 135 in its Focus 2030 strategy in May 2026, describing the all-new model as its first supercar. Both launch and deliveries are planned for 2028, with production expected to take place in Europe.

The strategy also confirmed continued production of the Emira, alongside the development of the new V8 hybrid model.

The Type 135 has not been confirmed for Australia. Market rollout and pricing remain to be determined, with no Australian launch timing or local price announced.

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